Apothecarium Dispensary Workers in Maryland Vote, 25-0, to Unionize With UFCW Local 27

Provided by UFCW Local 27

CUMBERLAND, Md., Aug. 9, 2024 – PRESS RELEASE – In a significant victory for workers' rights in Western Maryland, the staff at The Apothecarium Dispensary of Cumberland, Md., unanimously voted, 25-0, to form a union with United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 27. 

The unionization effort, which began on June 11, 2024, was driven by the workers' determination to address longstanding issues, including poor wages, unaffordable benefits, safety concerns and a lack of support from the parent company, TerrAscend. Despite facing some opposition and disinformation from the company, the workers remained united in their fight for dignity, respect and fairness in the workplace.

UFCW Local 27 President Jason Chorpenning is embracing the local union’s newest members with open arms.

"We welcome our sisters and brothers from The Apothecarium to Local 27,” he said. “Cannabis workers across the nation generate billions of dollars in sales for these rich corporations while receiving poverty wages in return. Local 27 is dedicated to fighting for 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 get a great contract that prioritizes dignity, respect and fairness."

Workers at the dispensary are elated about the victory.

"Today, we proved that when we stand together, we can make real change. We’re excited to start this new chapter with Local 27,” Budtender Ashley Canfield said. “We have been so pleased with the assistance we have received from the Local’s staff who have been with us every step of the way. We are hopeful for a future where our voices are heard, and our contributions are valued."

The next step is for the workers to elect a bargaining committee to be a part of the contract negotiations on the side of Local 27. The Local and The Apothecarium will head to the bargaining table to negotiate a contract that has to be ratified by the workers through a vote.

As Local 27 continues to advocate for workers across various industries, this victory at The Apothecarium highlights the growing momentum for unionization within the cannabis sector. The Local is committed to securing a contract that ensures fair treatment and improves the quality of life for the dispensary’s dedicated workers.