News

Retail workers at one of the world’s largest fashion brands, Zara have voted to form a union in New York. The Spanish giant is owned by the largest clothing retailer in the world, Inditex, which has a global agreement with UNI Global Union.

The Manhattan-wide agreement covers over 1000 workers and are the first Zara workers in the United States to be unionised.

“Our global framework agreement with Inditex enabled us to work together with Zara and the RWSDU to ensure the full implementation of the agreement,” said Alke Boessiger, Head of UNI Commerce.

“Zara is setting a powerful example for global retail giants – you can remain profitable and successful and still respect your workers’ rights to dignity, justice and freedom of association. Let’s hope this inspires other retailers to follow suit and allow their workers to unionise.”

President of RWDSU Local 1102 Gemma de Leon Lopresti said, “Workers at Zara in Manhattan can now look forward to working in an environment where they can improve their jobs, working conditions and work-life balance.”

“Working in retail in Manhattan is extremely fast-paced and hectic,” said Joseph Minton, an associate at Zara’s 59th street location.  “I’m excited that the company is willing to listen to our concerns and work with the union for everyone’s benefit.” 

“We applaud Zara for recognising the rights of its employees to choose to unionise, without interference,” said Stuart Appelbaum, president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, UFCW. “Unfortunately, too many American employers refuse to respect their workers’ right to freedom of association and intimidate and threaten workers who try to organise.”

“This process is a huge step for retail workers in New York,” said Appelbaum.