Holiday Shopping Statement from RWDSU

As the holiday shopping season is underway, the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), issued the following statement urging workers be treated with dignity and respect from in-store shopping to e-commerce warehousing, from farm to table and everything in between:

“The holiday season has always been a time of great pressure on retail workers. This year, that pressure is compounded by new challenges. Soaring economic uncertainty, aggressive use of AI in scheduling and inventory, continued issues of theft and violence, and shrinking seasonal hiring despite rising demand have created a perfect storm for workers. While retailers and shoppers brace for tariffs and supply chain issues, it’s frontline workers who absorb the stress and danger. Retail workers are not to blame, and they must not be left unprotected.

“Across stores of all kinds, workers are facing more disrespect, harassment and even violence from frustrated customers. No one should have to fear for their safety just for doing their job. Employers must ensure safe staffing levels, security, and clear protocols for handling aggression and shoppers must remember kindness costs nothing, but it means everything." Read the full statement here!