WYOMISSING, BERKS CO. (WOLF) — Unionized workers at a cannabis dispensary in Berks County have walked off the job, citing stalled contract negotiations and demands for better pay and more predictable schedules.
A total of 21 employees represented by Teamsters Local 429 at the Sunnyside dispensary in Wyomissing voted unanimously to authorize the strike after negotiations with management failed to produce what union leaders described as a fair contract. Sunnyside operates as a subsidiary of Cresco Labs, a publicly traded, multi-state cannabis company.
“Our members are united and prepared to take whatever steps are necessary to win a strong agreement,” said Bill Shappell, president of Teamsters Local 429. He said workers play a key role in the company’s growth and should receive wages and working conditions that reflect their contributions.
According to the union, employees are seeking higher wages and more stable hours. The work stoppage comes amid increased labor activity in Pennsylvania’s cannabis sector. In November, Teamsters members in the state concluded what the union described as the longest-running successful cannabis strike in U.S. history.
Jesse Case, director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division, said the union is working to create long-term career opportunities within the cannabis industry. He argued that workers in the sector should be able to build stable, middle-class careers similar to those in more established industries.
Cobi Motley, a wellness advisor at Sunnyside and member of Local 429, said employees are focused on securing livable wages and long-term job security. Motley added that workers are urging the company to return to negotiations with a more competitive offer.
Picketing began this week outside the Wyomissing location, where workers have been holding signs and calling on customers and community members to support their efforts. Union leaders said they remain willing to resume negotiations if the company presents what they consider a meaningful proposal.
Teamsters Local 429 represents workers in multiple industries across northeastern Pennsylvania. Cresco Labs has not publicly responded to the strike.