Nearly 500 workers at Eaze, a cannabis delivery and retail company, have ratified a new three-year union contract that guarantees wage increases, benefits, and key worker protections. The agreement, finalized with the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 5, 135, 324, and 770, comes as Eaze navigates a major restructuring under new ownership.
What’s in the Deal for Workers?
Securing fair wages and benefits has been a top priority for unionized cannabis workers, and this agreement delivers on several key fronts.
- Wage increases and back pay – Employees will see regular raises, with increases retroactive to January 1, 2025.
- Health and welfare contributions – The company will provide financial support for workers’ healthcare.
- Mileage reimbursement for delivery drivers – Rates will be indexed to the IRS mileage standard to ensure fair compensation.
- Union service recognition – Previous experience within the union will be acknowledged in wage scales and benefits.
UFCW Local 135 Secretary-Treasurer Grant Tom praised workers for standing strong through uncertainty. “They came out with a contract that protects their wages, benefits, and rights,” he said in a statement.
Eaze’s New Chapter Under Billionaire Ownership
Florida-based Eaze has been undergoing a transformation. After the collapse of Eaze Technologies at the end of 2024, the company relaunched on January 1, 2025, with a workforce of around 1,100 employees spanning California, Colorado, and Florida.
Eaze’s revival has been backed by a group of investors, including billionaire Jim Clark. The company’s acquisition of Green Dragon in 2021 positioned it for a broader expansion, with plans to establish a strong retail and cultivation presence.
On January 15, Eaze made two major announcements:
- Its Green Dragon Florida cultivation facility planted its first cannabis crop after a recent expansion.
- Two new product lines, Plus and Old Pal, will be added to Green Dragon locations, with additional brands expected later this year.
The Bigger Picture: Cannabis Unions Gain Strength
The cannabis industry has seen a surge in unionization efforts as workers push for better wages and conditions in a rapidly growing market. UFCW has led many of these efforts, representing thousands of dispensary, cultivation, and delivery workers across the country.
Labor agreements like Eaze’s set a precedent for other cannabis operators, especially in states where union presence is growing. California remains at the forefront, with UFCW securing contracts with major companies like MedMen, Cookies, and now, Eaze.
Worker protections are becoming a central issue in the industry, with unions pushing for:
- Job security and fair scheduling – Many cannabis jobs are part-time or temporary, leading to calls for more stable employment structures.
- Health and safety standards – The industry still lacks universal safety regulations, making union-negotiated protections crucial.
- Equity and inclusion efforts – Unions advocate for policies that ensure fair hiring practices and career growth opportunities.
What’s Next for Eaze?
Eaze’s fresh start under new leadership suggests ambitious plans for growth, but the company still faces a challenging market. With regulatory hurdles, fluctuating cannabis prices, and increasing competition, stability will be key.
For workers, the new contract provides much-needed security after a turbulent few months. As the company expands, it remains to be seen how this agreement will shape labor relations in the broader cannabis sector.