Approximately 1,300 workers at Encore Boston Harbor, represented by UNITE HERE Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25, initiated a strike on Friday following the expiration of their collective bargaining agreement on August 31. Wynn Resorts issued a statement indicating that the unions opted to strike "despite our continued efforts" to negotiate a new contract. The strikers are advocating for wage increases, enhanced healthcare and pension benefits, and job security protections; however, the casino will continue its operations during the walkout. The strike authorization was voted on by workers on August 20.
Wynn Resorts expressed a commitment to reach an agreement that is "fair, financially sustainable and protects jobs for the long term."
In its second-quarter financial results, published last month, Encore Boston Harbor reported revenues of $209 million—a 3% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. This revenue decline was largely attributed to a 12% year-over-year drop in table games winnings, contributing to an overall 6% decrease in casino revenue. Despite these figures, Wynn CEO Craig Billings stated that the property achieved record revenues for both hotel operations and revenue per available room during the second quarter. Billings noted that demand in Boston has remained robust, with slot handle slightly surpassing last year's figures.
Thomas G. Mari, president of Local 25, commented, "When a company refuses to respect the workers who make its profits possible, we shut it down. The Teamsters don’t cross picket lines and won’t be intimidated."
The issue of union agreements has been increasingly prominent among casino operators in recent years. Workers have sought greater benefits and job security in light of economic uncertainties and potential disruptions posed by technologies like AI.
This summer, all nine casinos in Atlantic City reached new labor agreements without resorting to strikes. However, the unions opted for shorter one-year contracts instead of the typical three-year terms due to increased competitive pressures from casinos in New York City and New Jersey’s online gaming market.
Conversely, the Culinary Union in Las Vegas has successfully unionized the entire Las Vegas Strip and secured significant wage increases in recent negotiations. These agreements are currently about halfway complete, with the union having previously conducted strikes as leverage for favorable deals ahead of major events, including the inaugural Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2023 and the Super Bowl set for the following February.
