Teamsters Local 469 ratified its first cannabis industry contract with a substantial wage increase while organizing an additional dispensary, marking significant momentum for labor representation in the state’s growing marijuana sector.
The Garden Society employees will receive more than 30 percent in wage increases over three years after organizing with the union less than six months ago, said Michael Broderick, Local 469 president.
“This is a core industry for our union and a major priority for us,” Broderick said. “We look forward to organizing even more cannabis facilities and negotiating even more contracts that deliver the respect and compensation that our members deserve.”
Contract delivers substantial benefits
The agreement includes improved paid time off and overtime provisions, employer-funded retirement contributions, and safeguards against unjust discipline and subcontracting practices, according to union officials.
The contract ratification came shortly after workers at Cannabist in Mays Landing voted to join the same Teamsters local, demonstrating growing interest in union representation throughout New Jersey’s cannabis industry.
“I’m looking forward to the support a Teamsters contract will provide,” said Abby Hill, a Cannabist worker who voted for union representation. “I’m excited for what the future holds for us.”
Labor movement expanding in cannabis sector
Union officials believe the New Jersey developments signal broader industry changes.
“What you’re seeing in New Jersey is indicative of what you’re going to see all over the country,” said Jesse Case, Teamsters Food Processing Division director. “We’re winning the best contracts in cannabis because we’re the best union in cannabis.”
Local 469 represents over 4,000 workers throughout New Jersey across various industries.
As states continue legalizing recreational and medical marijuana, labor experts note that cannabis industry workers increasingly seek union representation to secure better wages, benefits and workplace protections in this rapidly evolving sector.
