MGM Resorts Near to Reaching Culinary Agreement as Strike Date Approaches
MGM Resorts announced they're close to reaching an agreement with around 20,000 Las Vegas hospitality staff members, just before a potential walkout.
During a recent earnings call, MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle mentioned that a preliminary agreement with the Culinary Union is imminent. He stated, "I believe we will come to a deal today. We understand that our employees desire a pay raise to offset rising inflation, among other issues. This agreement, once announced, will address these concerns."
On the same day, the Culinary Union reached a preliminary contract covering their estimated 10,000 employees at Caesars Entertainment.
Wynn Resorts continues to negotiate with the union. They remain positive that both sides can soon negotiate a tentative contract. In a statement to local Las Vegas TV station KTNV, Wynn said, "We've had fruitful discussions with the Union, with our next session scheduled for tomorrow."
The union has threatened to strike if no deals are made before Friday. Any agreements reached would still require approval from the union members before taking effect.
Ted Pappageorge, Culinary Union's secretary-treasurer, expressed cautious optimism regarding the progress of pending talks, primarily with MGM. He stated, "MGM has the chance to do the right thing. We have a lot of work to accomplish. All the same challenges confronting us during the Caesars Entertainment negotiation committee discussions are present here with MGM Resorts."
Pappageorge also confirmed that the tentative agreement with Caesars would enhance salaries, job security, working conditions, and benefits for union members, according to KTNV.
Caesars Entertainment commented on their new agreement, indicating it would lead to "significant wage increases commensurate with our past achievements."
Earlier this week, the Nevada Current reported that MGM Resorts was training managers to serve alcohol to guests in preparation for the threatened strike.
Culinary Union spokesperson Bethany Khan responded to the news, saying, "Good luck to them. They'll also have to clean rooms, wash dishes, clean the casino floor, make drinks, cook food, and serve guests, among many others."
Approximately 35,000 Las Vegas hospitality workers have been working without a contract since September, with 95% of them authorizing a strike.
More pressure lies in the impending Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix scheduled for November 16-19. The highly awaited event is expected to bring a large audience to Las Vegas, potentially impacting the city negatively if workers go on strike.
Tourists in town already express concerns about service quality if the strike occurs. Kim Shafer from Seattle told KTNV, "Rooms won't be clean, and there won't be enough staff." Canadian Nathan Mantik added, "We came here to have fun and do whatever we want, and if the workers aren't happy with their wages, it won't be enjoyable for anyone."
In the meantime, 3,700 workers have been on strike at three Detroit gaming properties: Hollywood Casino at Greektown, MGM Grand Detroit, and MotorCity Casino Hotel, since October 17. They're advocating for people to avoid entering these casinos.
Read also:
- Remaining contenders down to two in DFB's struggle versus Brazil.
- Law enforcement agencies in various metropolises plan expansive measures for May 1.
- Berlin Transport Senator Schreiner Steps Down over Doctorate Issues
- The Next Development in the DAZN/DFL Billion Euro Controversy
Source: www.casino.org
