Key facts
- Italian Apple store employees went on strike on Friday, the launch day for the iPhone 18 Pro.
- Over 1,600 employees across 17 Apple stores were involved in the strike.
- Unions cited worsening working conditions and confusing job descriptions.
- Union demands include hiring more employees, permanent contracts for fixed-term staff, and increased hours for part-time staff.
- Apple stated it offers industry-leading compensation and benefits.
Italian Apple store employees initiated a strike on Friday, coinciding with the global launch of the new iPhone 18 Pro. The action, organized by Filcams CGIL, Fiascast CISL, and Uiltucs trade unions, involved more than 1,600 workers across 17 Apple stores in major Italian cities. Unions highlighted concerns over deteriorating working conditions, increasingly complex job roles focused on customer care, and inadequate attention to employee well-being. They are demanding increased hiring, the conversion of fixed-term contracts to permanent ones, and options for part-time staff to work longer hours. Apple, however, stated that its stores were operating normally and emphasized its commitment to offering industry-leading compensation and benefits, including comprehensive health and wellness programs. The iPhone 18 Pro, along with the upcoming foldable Duo smartphone, represents Apple's latest product push.