Low wages and poor conditions lead to union formation at a Maryland pharmacy

Employees at The Apothecarium dispensary in Cumberland, Maryland, have voted to unionize with UFCW Local 27. The unanimous decision, announced in August, came after significant complaints about working conditions. The UFCW division said it was a victory for workers demanding better wages, benefits and working conditions in the burgeoning cannabis industry.

The union drive, which began in June, was fueled by employee complaints about low wages, high health care costs and a lack of support from the pharmacy's parent company, TerrAscend. Despite resistance from management, workers remained steadfast in their pursuit of union representation.

“Cannabis workers across the country generate billions in revenue for these wealthy corporations while receiving starvation wages in return,” said Jason Chorpenning, president of UFCW Local 27. “Local 27 is committed to the fight of these workers and all working people to achieve a living wage, fair benefits and a better life. We are confident that we will work with these folks to achieve a great contract that puts dignity, respect and fairness at the forefront.”

Staff at The Apothecarium expressed relief and optimism after the vote. “Today we proved that when we stand together, we can make real change,” said Ashley Canfield, a budtender at the dispensary. “We hope for a future where our voices are heard and our contributions are valued.”

The union will now negotiate a contract with The Apothecarium. Key issues that will be on the negotiating table include wages, health insurance benefits, paid vacation and workplace safety.

UFCW Local 27 represents over 16,000 workers in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Cannabis workers at The Apothecarium in Burtonsville and Sweetspot in Olney, Maryland, have filed for union elections with UFCW Local 400 following the union formation at the Cumberland location.