Apple Slows Hiring of Genius Employees at Some Retail Stores

In a move that signals a shift in the company's approach to staffing, Apple has slowed its hiring process for Genius employees at some retail stores. According to Bloomberg, the tech giant has chosen not to fill open positions in certain locations, sparking speculation about a potential reevaluation of its worker deployment strategy.

The news comes as unionizing activity is on the rise among workers at various retailers, including AT&T Mobility and Verizon, which are represented by the same labor union, Communications Workers of America. In fact, over 70% of employees at an Apple store in Cumberland Mall have signed authorization cards in support of joining the same union.

Workers at an Apple store in Atlanta recently became the first to file for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board, a move that could pave the way for similar efforts at other locations. The company has retained the law firm Littler Mendelson, which also represented Starbucks in its fight against worker organizing.

Apple's decision to slow down hiring of Genius employees may be related to changes in consumer behavior since the COVID-19 pandemic. As more people opt for online shopping and remote services, the company is reassessing its staffing levels and functions. Some stores have already eliminated their Genius Bars and opted instead to assign more associates to help customers on the sales floor.

In other news, Apple has launched an online Self Service Repair Store, providing customers with access to repair manuals, genuine parts, and tools for certain iPhone models. The company has also tested a flexwork model that allows store staff to work remotely some weeks and on-premises others.

While Apple has not implemented a widespread hiring freeze or laid off Genius employees, the news has sparked speculation about the company's plans for its retail workforce in the future. As the tech giant continues to diversify its service network using third-party providers and expand online services, it remains to be seen how this shift will impact the role of Genius employees at Apple stores.

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