Less than five months after being told their jobs would be eliminated, nearly 500 Eaze workers represented by UFCW Locals 5, 135, 324, and 770 have overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with their new employer, Eaze, Inc. This contract covers cannabis delivery drivers, depot staff, and retail workers across eleven locations in California.
Eaze union members had successfully negotiated their first union contract in April 2024. However, financial challenges within California's cannabis industry and internal disputes among Stachs, LLC investors led to the company's liquidation and closure. In November 2024, Eaze announced $10 million in Series B funding following the acquisition of select assets from Eaze Technologies, Inc. This investment allowed for the reopening of 70 Eaze and Green Dragon locations across California, Colorado, Florida, and Michigan, including 57 retail stores (with one in San Diego), 11 delivery hubs, and two production facilities.
In early January 2025, Eaze, Inc. rehired a super majority of its existing workforce and voluntarily recognized UFCW representation. The company and UFCW quickly negotiated a new collective bargaining agreement to ensure stability for workers and the business.
"The workers at Eaze stood strong through uncertainty and came out with a contract that protects their wages, benefits, and rights," said UFCW Local 135 Secretary-Treasurer Grant Tom. "This agreement shows the power of union solidarity and ensures these cannabis workers have a voice on the job as the industry evolves."
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