UFCW Local 135 members at March and Ash have voted to overwhelmingly ratify a new three-year contract representing over 300 workers at nine dispensaries, eight in San Diego County and one in Imperial County.
Negotiations between UFCW Local 135’s bargaining committee, comprising rank and file members from March and Ash, and the company began on April 9. After weeks of discussions, a tentative agreement was struck on May 8, leading to the contract vote on May 15.
“I am incredibly proud of the dedication demonstrated by our bargaining committee members throughout the negotiation process,” said UFCW Local 135 Secretary-Treasurer Grant Tom. “This was their first time at the bargaining table, and they excelled in representing the interests of their fellow workers. Their participation was instrumental in securing the gains outlined in this contract.”
March and Ash concierge and bargaining committee member Dina Calvarese said that “it’s encouraging to see fellow employees having each other’s back and getting together with our cannabis union to stay solidified towards our common goal of making a living wage and having job security.”
The new contract features several key improvements, including raises for all and significant wage increases for many; a simplified wage scale with annual raises; an unreducible wage reopener with consideration for a language differential; a 5-minute return from lunchtime grace period; enhanced paid sick leave benefits that includes 48 hours of paid sick leave (up from 40), with up to 96 bankable hours; and more. Additionally, statewide accretion language encompassing UFCW Locals 5, 8, 135, 324, 770, 1167, 1428, and 1442 has been included, making this contract cover the entirety of California.
This marks the second agreement between UFCW Local 135 and March and Ash. The initial contract began on May 17, 2021, and concludes on May 17, 2024. The newly ratified three-year deal begins May 17, 2024, and ends on May 17, 2027.
