Apple reaches tentative agreement with retail employees in Maryland

Apple has reached a preliminary agreement on a collective bargaining agreement with retail employees in Maryland. This announcement was made by the International Association of Machinists (IAM) on Friday, marking a milestone for the company's U.S. stores. The agreement still needs to be ratified by the approximately 85 employees in the bargaining unit, who are scheduled to vote on it on August 6. According to IAM, the agreement includes provisions on working hours, severance, outsourcing, and disciplinary measures. The three-year contract also provides for an average salary increase of 10% and guarantees the retention of all current employee benefits.