Approximately 1,300 workers at Encore Boston Harbor, represented by UNITE HERE Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25 unions, initiated a strike on Friday after their collective bargaining agreement lapsed on August 31. In response, Wynn Resorts stated that the unions chose to strike "despite our continued efforts" to reach a new agreement. The workers are advocating for higher wages, improved healthcare and pension benefits, and protections for job security. Despite the strike, the casino will continue its operations. The strike was authorized by a vote on August 20.
Wynn stated its commitment to seeking a resolution that is fair, financially sustainable, and maintains long-term job security for employees.
In its second-quarter financial report released last month, Encore Boston Harbor reported revenues of $209 million, representing a 3% decline compared to the previous year. A significant 12% year-over-year decrease in table games winnings contributed to an overall 6% drop in casino revenue. However, Wynn CEO Craig Billings highlighted that the property set records for hotel revenue and revenue per available room during the same period. He noted that demand in Boston remains robust, with slot handle exceeding last year's figures.
Thomas G. Mari, president of Teamsters Local 25, commented on the situation, stating, "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."
Union contracts have become a significant issue for casino operators in recent years. Workers are increasingly seeking enhanced benefits and job security amid economic uncertainty and potential threats from new technologies like artificial intelligence.
This summer, all nine casinos in Atlantic City managed to reach new labor agreements without strikes, although the union opted for one-year deals instead of the more common multi-year arrangements, citing the uncertainty posed by competition from New York City casinos and New Jersey’s expanding online gaming sector.
In Las Vegas, the Culinary Union has successfully organized labor across the entire Las Vegas Strip and achieved historic wage increases in recent negotiations. These agreements are currently in progress, and the union is known for its ability to use strikes as leverage, particularly as it approaches the inaugural Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2023 and the Super Bowl in February 2024.
