Whole Foods

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Amazon-Owned Whole Foods Sees Workers in Philadelphia Store Succeed in Union Vote

January 28, 2025

Nicholas Morine

Workers responsible for staffing a Philadelphia Whole Foods grocery store — an organic grocery chain owned by Amazon — have succeeded in their organizing efforts surrounding joining a labor union, CNN reported. The vote took place on Jan. 27, with 130 workers voting in favor of the unionization proposal, while 100 voted against the notion.

This vote resulted in the first union representation of Whole Foods store staff.

Providing a statement to CNN, the union’s local chapter detailed anti-union intimidation efforts in the period preceding the vote. However, the results of the union vote represent “a significant victory in their fight for fair wages, improved benefits, and a safer, more supportive workplace,” according to local union reps.

“This fight is far from over, but today’s victory is an important step forward,” said chapter President Wendell Young IV. “We are ready to bring Whole Foods to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair first contract that reflects the workers’ needs and priorities.”

As USA Today noted, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) confirmed various details of the vote.

“Region 4-Philadelphia conducted a ballot count today for 297 full-time and part-time employees at Whole Foods in Philadelphia, PA, to vote on union representation by UFCW [United Food and Commercial Workers] Local 1176 Keystone State,” the NLRB wrote to the outlet via email.

Further, the NLRB verified the aforementioned vote outcome and indicated that Whole Foods “must begin bargaining in good faith with the union.” Both parties have five days to file objections to the election — and if none are filed, the results will be certified.

Whole Foods ‘Disappointed’ Over Union Vote, Faces Allegations of ‘Threats’ and ‘Spying’

While Whole Foods Market told USA Today it was “disappointed by the outcome of this election,” it then pivoted to explain that it held its employees in the highest regard.

“We are committed to maintaining a positive working environment in our Philly Center City store,” a company statement read.

“Whole Foods Market is proud to offer competitive compensation, great benefits, and career advancement opportunities to all Team Members,” it continued.

Not all local workers seem to agree with the grocer’s estimation of its activities. Per CNN, a local chapter of UFCW, the union that the Philadelphia-based Whole Foods workers are set to join, filed formal charges with the NLRB alleging that the company had threatened and intimidated pro-union staff, while also spying on union organizing activities.

Such behaviors would constitute violations of U.S. labor law if proven true.

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