On Feb. 3, cannabis workers who are employed at the Herbology dispensary in Newark, Ohio, made history by becoming the first cannabis dispensary in the state to unionize by joining UFCW Local 1059. In addition to the location in Newark, Herbology also operates a dispensary in Cuyahoga Falls.
The 14 workers, who assist patients with the purchase of medical cannabis products and maintain inventory control at the dispensary, joined our union family because they wanted a voice in the workplace regarding scheduling and the ability to attain full-time status. They were also concerned that some employees, who were working regular 40-hour per week shifts, were being denied access to full-time benefits.
“The workers at Herbology are taking a stand,” said UFCW Local 1059 President Randy Quickel. “Together, they are going to help improve their workplace—and the steps they’re taking could blaze a path for improving Ohio’s whole cannabis industry.”