Encore Boston Harbor is at risk of a worker strike if it fails to meet the contract demands of its two largest employee unions.
Unite Here Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25 represent approximately 1,350 workers at the casino resort, including housekeepers, cooks, servers, bartenders, slot attendants, and warehouse workers in Everett, Mass. These groups are threatening to strike if Wynn Resorts does not agree to higher wages, improved healthcare, and pension security.
The unions announced that a vote among their members showed majority support for authorizing a strike if necessary. They also stated that they would not give Wynn Resorts advanced notice if they choose to strike.
“We’re only asking for fair treatment and compensation,” said Sem Avdic, a warehouse worker and member of Teamsters Local 25. “We simply seek respect and adequate pay. No one wants a strike.”
Carlos Aramayo, president of Unite Here Local 26, expressed stronger words towards Wynn Resorts.
We are the ones who make this business successful. We consistently provide exceptional service, yet Wynn is offering us a contract that is subpar. Boston is not Wynn’s cash cow. They have the power to end this by agreeing to a fair contract,” Aramayo stated.
Encore Boston Harbor reported a revenue of $846.9 million in 2025, with gaming contributing $629.2 million. The property’s EBITDA was $236.7 million, a 4.2% decrease from the previous year.
What Are the Union’s Demands?
The contracts with Unite Here Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25 are set to expire on August 31.
The unions are requesting wage increases of $10 per hour over four years, raising the base pay to $25 per hour, maintaining existing health benefits, and ensuring pensions for long-serving employees.
Despite being located in Everett, Massachusetts, Encore Boston Harbor is situated in one of the most expensive regions in the US. A recent study found that a family of four in Massachusetts needs to earn $329,555 annually to live comfortably, the highest in the country.
“We take pride in our work at Encore and strive to contribute to the company’s success every day. We believe that we deserve a fair contract to support our families,” added Avdic.
Appeal to the Public
The unions are calling on the public to boycott Encore Boston Harbor if a strike unfolds.
“This city stands with its unions. No one crosses picket lines – not the Teamsters and not Boston. When our members are out there, we ask every worker and family in this city to show solidarity,” said Thomas Mari, president of Teamsters Local 25.
“While they’re out, stay out,” Mari emphasized.
Previously, a spokesperson from Wynn Resorts mentioned that the company values and empowers its employees, creating an environment where they feel appreciated and fairly compensated to deliver exceptional guest experiences.