March & Ash Cannabis Dispensary Workers Unionize
Workers at San Diego-based cannabis dispensary chain March & Ash have made history by forming a union and ratifying a collective bargaining agreement with UFCW Local 135. This landmark contract vote took place at March & Ash locations in Vista, El Centro, and City Heights on May 12.
The agreement, valid for three years, marks the first labor contract for cannabis workers in San Diego and Imperial counties that originated locally. March & Ash’s flagship Mission Valley location hopes to join the union at a later date.
The contract, a result of years-long negotiations between management and union representatives, is a model for the cannabis industry. It includes unique provisions specifically tailored for cannabis workers, such as a cooperative grievance disciplinary process and an education and daycare fund.
All employees will receive a wage increase, health benefits, paid vacations, and paid holidays. Additionally, an equity growth account has been established to support employee benefits. This progressive contract sets a new standard for both retail and cannabis worker contracts in the industry.
Both management and the union faced challenges during the negotiation process but worked collaboratively to overcome obstacles. The contract is seen as a blueprint for future union organizing efforts in the cannabis industry.
Workers at March & Ash, like Blanca Gonzalez and Russell Frost, view unionization as a pathway to career development and legitimacy in the cannabis industry. Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez applauds the historic contract and hopes to see more organizing campaigns in new industries.
In conclusion, UFCW Local 135 official Grant Tom believes this collective bargaining agreement sets a new standard for unions organizing in the cannabis industry and paves the way for workers to lead the way in setting industry standards.
This groundbreaking unionization effort in the cannabis industry demonstrates the power of collective bargaining and sets a new standard for worker rights in the emerging cannabis industry.
