Detroit, November 14, 2021
Casino workers employed by MGM Grand Detroit have voted to ratify a new contract, bringing an end to a 47-day strike that disrupted operations.
The workers, who are members of the Detroit Casino Council representing nearly 4,000 employees across the city’s three casinos, approved the five-year agreement on Saturday. This comes after unionized workers at the other two casinos reached an agreement following their own month-long strike.
The strike, which commenced on October 17, was prompted by concerns over healthcare and wages that had not kept up with the rising cost of living.
Improved Terms for MGM Grand Detroit Employees
Under the new agreement, approximately 1,700 employees at MGM Grand Detroit will benefit from a range of improvements. These include an average immediate pay raise of 18%, workload reductions, and no increase in healthcare costs.
The Detroit Casino Council stated that the agreement has secured the healthcare and significantly improved the wages of unionized workers such as dealers, cleaning staff, and valets.
Voices of MGM Grand Detroit Workers
Gabriel Robert Hernandez, a valet at MGM Grand Detroit and member of Teamsters Local 1038, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “We sacrificed a lot during the pandemic, but we fought for and ultimately won a contract that secures our healthcare and provides significantly improved wages,” Hernandez said in a statement on Saturday.
Resumption of Normal Operations
Executives at MGM Grand Detroit welcomed the resolution, recognizing it as a positive step towards resuming normal operations. Matt Buckley, President and COO of Midwest Group at MGM Resorts International, shared his enthusiasm in a statement on Saturday. “We’re excited to welcome our team back and continue providing our guests with the entertainment experiences for which MGM Grand Detroit is known,” said Buckley.
With the ratification of the new contract, casino operations are set to return to their regular schedules. The MGM Grand Detroit team is eager to resume their commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.