On Friday, December 19, approximately 20 patient care advocates and inventory coordinators at The Bloc Dispensary in Waretown, New Jersey ratified their first union contract!

In the summer of 2024, workers contacted Local 152 to learn how they could become part of the union. The group voted by majority card check to be represented by UFCW Local 152 later that year, and contract negotiations started shortly thereafter.

Creating the foundation

Achieving a new union contract is a lengthy process. Every aspect of day-to-day operations must be negotiated, leaving no stone unturned. Therefore, new contracts require a lot of time, energy, and resources, but the resulting agreement — laying the foundation for all future negotiations — is worth the wait.

The Bloc Dispensary workers have now achieved the following fundamental protections:

• Job protection: members are no longer “at-will” employees, and termination must have just cause;
• Grievance procedure: these workers now have access to a four-step grievance procedure, a formal way for them to raise concerns or complaints about their employer or working conditions;
• Seniority: establishing provisions to recognize workers with more time and experience with the company;
• Successorship language: workers are now protected in the event of a sale or merger

The three-year agreement guarantees considerable yearly wage increases as well as a one-time ratification bonus and store credit for all employees. It secures their affordable healthcare benefits, recognizes paid holidays and paid sick leave, and guarantees their employee discount — all in a written legal document.

Congratulations to the newest members of UFCW Local 152! This contract would not have been accomplished without our negotiating committee: Bargaining Representative Peter White, Union Representative Tony Melendez-Mott, and worker John Trivigno.

Why not you?

UFCW is proud to be the cannabis workers’ union.

If you work in the cannabis industry, you deserve respect, fair treatment, and a say in your workplace. Unionizing under an LPA means the decision is entirely in your hands, without employer roadblocks. The workers at The Bloc recognized this opportunity and took action. Now, it can be your turn!

Are you interested in learning more about how UFCW Local 152 can help you and your coworkers? Start by learning how to form a union.

Are you in the cannabis industry and want to learn more about labor peace agreements at your facility? Email Director of Organizing Mike Thompson at mthompson@ufcwlocal152.org today.