Two notable updates regarding “persuaders” were documented by LaborLab last week. First, PetSmart in Fairfield, CA hired LRI Consulting at $425/hour to “persuade” workers not to unionize. LRI Consulting sub-contracted Evelyn Fragoso of Quality Labor Solutions and she was compensated $200/hour. Additionally, S&S Activewear in Bolingbrook, IL hired LR Consultants.
Over the weekend, The Labor Valley Report (TLVR) did a segment highlighting these recent examples of bosses hiring “labor relations consultants” to “persuade” workers against collectively bargaining for stronger workplaces and communities. Watch here:
**Last Friday, LaborLab’s Union-Buster Tracker was also updated.**
The “persuader industry” is composed of firms and consultants hired by employers to obstruct worker unionization. “Persuaders,” as they are referred to by the U.S. Department of Labor, utilize a range of tactics to thwart union organizing efforts. These tactics include disseminating false and misleading information about unions and their potential impact on worker benefits. They also employ intimidation tactics and conduct mandatory captive audience meetings where anti-union messages are delivered. Furthermore, persuaders may engage in surveillance, monitoring union activity and targeting pro-union employees, while also following workers, conducting one-on-one meetings, and collecting personal employee information that can be leveraged against organizing workers.
In November of 2024, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled that mandatory captive audience meetings are unlawful.
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