A group of Trader Joe’s employees in Massachusetts filed with a federal agency to hold a union election, joining other U.S. workers who are organizing to demand higher pay and better benefits.
If the effort is successful, the Trader Joe’s store in Hadley, Mass., would become the first unionized location at the privately held grocery chain, which operates more than 500 locations across the U.S. and is known for its quirky products and wine deals. Workers said more than 30% of store employees have submitted a card noting they want to be represented by a union, a requirement by the National Labor Relations Board to hold an election. The workers are represented by an independent labor organization, Trader Joe’s United.