Employees at Patina Restaurant Group in Disney Springs Restaurants Announce Campaign to Unionize

Employees at Patina Restaurant Group in Disney Springs Restaurants Announce Campaign to Unionize

Disney Springs restaurant workers employed by Patina Restaurant Group announced plans to unionize on Monday.

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In a first for Disney Springs, restaurant workers at Morimoto Asia, The Edison, Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Enzo’s Hideaway, and Pizza Ponte announced plans to unionize. These restaurants are operated by Patina Restaurant Group, a subcontractor under Delaware North, rather than directly by Disney. Unlike Disney’s unionized “Cast Members,” these workers lack the same benefits and job security protections. This move marks the first attempt by subcontracted Disney Springs employees to form a union.

Citing “second-class working conditions,” employees at five Disney Springs restaurants run by Patina Restaurant Group announced their intent to unionize with UNITE HERE Local 737. These conditions include a lack of benefits like healthcare and paid time off, despite demands for full availability and frequent five-day workweeks. Furthermore, 90% of positions are classified as part-time, making it difficult for workers to afford basic necessities. Two female employees even reported experiencing harassment from supervisors.

Local 737, which already represents Disney World food and beverage workers, has filed unfair labor practice charges against Delaware North with the National Labor Relations Board. This move highlights the disparity in benefits and treatment between subcontracted employees and directly-employed “Cast Members.”

Adding weight to the movement, local leaders like Representative Anna Eskamani voiced their support, acknowledging Florida’s high cost of living and advocating for fair wages.

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