The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165 reached agreements with Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts International, and Wynn Resorts, thus averting an announced strike that was to begin at 5 a.m. Pacific on Nov. 10. The agreements came together in the 24 hours before the strike deadline, with the parties reaching consensus on the last of the agreements with Wynn Resorts at 2 a.m. Pacific on Nov. 10.
“After seven months of negotiations, we are proud to say that this is the best contract and economic package we have ever won in our 88-year history,” says Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Union, in a prepared statement.
The agreements include the largest wage increases every negotiated in the Culinary Union’s 88-year history, workload reductions for guest room attendants, mandated daily room cleaning, increased safety protections for workers on the job, expanded technology contract language, extended recall rights, and the right for unionized workers to support nonunion restaurant workers seeking to unionize by respecting their picket lines.
“With this new union contract, hospitality workers will be able to provide for their families and thrive in Las Vegas,” adds Pappageorge.
Michael Weaver, spokesperson for Wynn Resorts, says, “We strongly believe that only the most talented and empowered employees, working in an environment in which they feel valued and well compensated can deliver our signature Wynn and Encore guest experiences. We are very pleased that we were able to reach an agreement with Culinary Workers Union Local 226, which fulfills our shared goal of providing outstanding benefits and overall compensation to our employees in a work environment that is second to none.”
Bill Hornbuckle, president and CEO of MGM Resorts International, adds, “Our employees are the heart of our company and the driving force in the success we’ve enjoyed in Las Vegas. We’re pleased to reach an agreement that averts a strike, gives our Culinary Union employees a well-earned boost in pay and benefits, and reduces workloads—all while continuing to provide for growth and advancement.”
