Alamo Drafthouse Sloan’s Lake Workers Announce Strike

Workers at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Sloan’s Lake, Colorado, are set to begin a strike on Friday. The strike is in response to what employees call a “disastrous” rollout of the company’s new QR code ordering system and a perceived lack of responsiveness from management.

Dispute Over QR Code Ordering System

Represented by Communications Workers of America Local 7777, the workers argue the QR code system disrupts the traditional in-theater experience. Customers are now largely required to order through their phones instead of the established pen-and-paper method.

Impact on Customers and Staff

Katie Hansen, a member of the Sloan’s Lake bargaining committee, stated, “The QR system isn’t optional, it’s being forced on every guest.” She added that the system creates a worse experience for customers and complicates the jobs of staff, citing long-time patrons who have expressed their dissatisfaction.

Union members report the new system has led to more complex orders and increased friction between guests and staff. They also fear the shift to QR-based ordering is a precursor to potential staffing reductions, despite company assurances to the contrary.

Failed Negotiations and Union Response

Negotiations between the workers and Alamo Drafthouse management recently broke down. The company proposed an “18-hour guarantee,” which the union deemed misleading. Workers explained the guarantee only applies to scheduled hours, not actual hours worked, and allows management to reduce shifts based on business needs.

Restrictions on Worker Expression

The union also rejected provisions that would limit their ability to publicly criticize the QR system. These included restrictions on wearing workplace messaging and a commitment to refrain from collective actions. “In exchange for accepting a system that harms both workers and guests, we were asked to give up our voice,” the union stated. “That’s not a real compromise.”

Westminster Location Joins the Union

In related news, the Alamo Drafthouse location in Westminster, Colorado, recently voted 40-2 to join CWA Local 7777. This decision was largely motivated by concerns surrounding the implementation of the QR code ordering system.

Representatives of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema have not yet responded to requests for comment.