An union vote at AppleThe Cumberland Mall in Atlanta has been closed after the union that tried to organize workers in the retail sector withdrew its request to vote.

Communications Workers of America claimed that Apple had violated labor law and prevented fair elections. CWA stated in a statement that Apple is committing more Covid violations at its store. This could make it unsafe for employees to cast their ballots.

Voting was previously scheduled for next weekIf it was successful, the store would have been America’s first Apple union-owned store.

This development will be a blow to Apple employees’ unionization efforts at its retail stores across the U.S. In addition to the Cumberland Mall store, at least three other Apple shops have employees who are participating in public union drives. Maryland store scheduledTo vote on whether or not to unite by June 15.

“The Cumberland Mall Store workers announced in April that they had formed a union. They requested to be recognized by Apple. Apple launched a coordinated, complex campaign to intimidate the workers and block their rights to form unions,” CWA’s representative stated in a statement. This behavior is against U.S. law and the principles and code of conduct of Apple as well as international human rights standards.

According to the Cumberland Mall Organizing Committee, “We won’t move forward with the election because of Apple’s response and the coercive climate they created.” tweeted.

The workers at the Atlanta location filed for union drives in April. Organisers stated that more than 70% signed cards indicating interest in joining the CWA.

Apple has been accused since of using labor-law violating anti-union tactics. The CWA saidAn unfair labor practice was filed this month. The filing stated that the managers of the store hosted “captive audience” meetings, where employees are forced to attend anti-union meetings.

Apple’s Head of Retail and Human Resources stated in a part of an internal video that this week that she believes unions will make it difficult for Apple managers respond to employees concerns. committed to its employees.

Cumberland Mall organizers demand more transparency regarding how their employees are paid.

Apple representatives did not respond to our request for comment. Apple has stated that its benefits and compensation are strong for both full-time workers and part-time staff. Apple earlier this week announced an increase in the starting salary for its retail employees to $22 per hour.