Workers at Chartwells Compass Group employed at Iona University in New Rochelle, N.Y., have ratified a new contract that includes provisions related to artificial intelligence (AI) protections.
The three-year agreement includes significant wage increases, the highest in the unit’s history, and maintains comprehensive health and benefit coverage for the members. Additionally, workers have secured an increased uniform allowance, which reflects the professional value of their roles.
The contract also addresses the implications of technology in the workplace. Following the planned opening of a new dining hall with AI-driven ordering kiosks and “Just Walk Out” technology in August 2025, union officials expressed concerns about potential job displacement.
RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 President Jack Caffey stated, “AI has the potential to impact all of our jobs. That’s why we are making sure we get in front of the changes AI is bringing so members don’t get hurt and our contracts stay strong.”
In response to these challenges, the union secured new contract language intended to protect members from the effects of technological change. This includes provisions to safeguard seniority, thus ensuring that workers’ job security remains intact amid advancements in automation.
This effort by RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 establishes a new standard for labor protections in the context of evolving technology, aiming to uphold the stability and fairness of employment at Iona University.
Source: www.ufcw.org via Google News.
