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Unions representing employees at Apple stores across France have declared a strike scheduled for Friday and Saturday, just days before the highly anticipated iPhone 15 launch. The workers are demanding improved pay and better working conditions from the tech giant.
In a statement released on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), CGT Apple Retail, one of the prominent unions, stated, “Management having decided to ignore our perfectly legitimate demands and concerns, the four unions of Apple Retail France… call for a strike on Sept. 22 and 23.” This announcement came on Wednesday, leaving Apple France to grapple with potential disruptions during a crucial product launch period.
In addition to the strike, the unions have urged Apple employees to gather for a demonstration on Friday morning at the Paris Opera Garnier, a location strategically situated next to one of Apple’s flagship stores in the heart of Paris.
Karine Chouchane, a member of the CGT Apple Retail union, shared insights with French Daily Liberation, indicating that the strike may involve employees from a significant portion of Apple’s stores scattered across France.
As of the time of reporting, Apple France has not issued an official response to the union’s demands or the impending strike. However, the situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days.
The timing of this strike is particularly sensitive for Apple, as it comes on the heels of a recent setback in France. Last week, the French government suspended the sale of iPhone 12 models in the country, citing concerns about radiation exposure levels exceeding acceptable limits. In response, Apple pledged to release a software update specifically for iPhone 12 devices in France to address these concerns.
While this action may resolve the issue in France, the incident has raised concerns in other European nations, indicating that Apple may need to take similar measures in other regions to ensure compliance with radiation exposure regulations.
The strike by Apple store employees in France underscores the growing scrutiny of labor practices within the tech industry, as workers increasingly advocate for better wages and working conditions. As the strike’s impact on the iPhone 15 launch remains uncertain, it will be closely watched by consumers, industry observers, and labor rights advocates alike.
