Unionization Efforts Intensify at Encore Boston Harbor as Casino Cage Workers Join Teamsters

• Casino cage workers at Encore Boston Harbor have unionized
• The Teamsters now represent the cashiers
• Encore Boston is heavily unionized

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The unionization efforts at Encore Boston Harbor represent a pivotal moment for casino cage employees seeking better working conditions. The unionization process at Encore Boston Harbor reaches a significant milestone as casino cage employees have opted to join Teamsters Local 25.

A press release from Teamsters Local 25 reported that a substantial group of 85 employees at Encore Boston Harbor voted overwhelmingly to join the International Brotherhood, headquartered in Massachusetts.

“We joined the Teamsters because we believe in fairness, respect, and building a better future for everyone on the job,” expressed Ranjana Thapa, an Encore Boston cashier. “It wasn’t easy, but we overcame every obstacle, stood together through the hard times, and never backed down.”

These cashiers, responsible for converting gamblers’ gaming chips into cash, voiced their decision to unionise to negotiate for improved pay and benefits, asserting that they needed a genuine voice in their workplace.

“These workers put in a lot of effort to secure a strong voice on the job,” stated Tom Mari, president of Teamsters Local 25. “All of us at Local 25 are ready to ensure these new members receive the industry-leading pay and benefits they deserve.”

Teamsters Local 25 represents over 13,000 employees in diverse fields throughout southern New England.

Wynn Unions

Historically, Wynn Resorts under the leadership of Steve Wynn strived to prevent unionization across its properties in Las Vegas.

In 2005, despite opposition, Wynn Las Vegas achieved unionization with the Culinary Workers Union, and this was followed by Encore Boston Harbor after its opening in late 2008.

Encore Boston Harbor, Wynn Resorts’ sole US property outside Nevada, opened its doors in June 2019. Many resort employees aligned themselves with Unite Here Local 26.

In October 2020, approximately 100 workers affiliated with IBEW Local 103, including electricians and A/V staff members on the property. Three years on, slot attendants at Encore Boston subsequently joined Unite Here Local 26. Now, the casino cage cashiers have also unionized.

Supporters of unions argue that collective bargaining results in enhanced pay and benefits for employees, providing a more substantial voice against management and owners, while detractors claim unions can adversely affect business by increasing costs, hampering productivity, and contributing to economic instability.

Encore Leads Massachusetts

As part of Massachusetts’ three-casino gaming industry, Encore Boston Harbor stands out significantly.

In the first seven months of 2025, Encore Boston Harbor reported a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of $430.9 million from its slot machines and table games. Comparatively, MGM Springfield generated $165 million and Plainridge Park, which only offers slot machines, achieved $105.1 million.

Key Facts About Unionization in Casinos:

• Teamsters Local 25 now represents over 13,000 workers in Southern New England.
• GGR for Encore Boston is higher than its competitors in Massachusetts.
• The Teamsters have successfully unionized numerous groups within Wynn Resorts, a challenging feat in the past.
• Unionization efforts have historically faced opposition, yet success can lead to better compensation and workplace conditions.

Summary: The movement for unionization at Encore Boston Harbor showcases the determination of casino cage employees to improve their working conditions and compensation through collective bargaining. With the Teamsters Local 25 now representing these workers, they are poised to negotiate for better pay, benefits, and a true voice in the workplace within a heavily competitive landscape in Massachusetts.