Apple Workers in Italy Strike During iPhone 18 Pro Launch

More than 1,600 Apple retail workers across Italy went on strike Friday, staging a protest over working conditions timed to coincide with the high-profile launch of the new iPhone 18 Pro. The labor action impacted 17 Apple stores throughout the country, according to a joint statement from the Filcams CGIL, Fisascat CISL, and Uiltucs trade unions.

Strike Timed for Maximum Impact

The unions strategically chose the launch day to maximize visibility for their protest. Picket lines formed outside several locations, including a prominent demonstration at Apple's flagship glass-cube store in Milan's city center, where dozens of employees gathered with flags and whistles as customers lined up for the new device.

"For Apple as a company, image is very important," said Nicholas Pezze, a Filcams CGIL union representative, explaining the timing of the walkout. "As unions, we thought this would be the right day to stage an image of protest from the workers we represent."

Union Demands and Company Response

The unions allege that working conditions have deteriorated, particularly during new product launches which they say create significant additional work for retail staff. Filcams CGIL said in a release that employee well-being has not been properly addressed and job descriptions have become unclear.

The unions' key demands include:

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• Additional hiring to manage workloads.
• The conversion of fixed-term contracts to permanent positions.
• Options for part-time workers to increase their hours.

An Apple spokesperson told Reuters that its stores remained operational despite the strike. "Our retail and online stores are open today, and we are excited to welcome our customers as usual," the spokesperson said.

Context for Investors

The labor action highlights ongoing challenges for Apple's retail operations, even as it launches key new products. The iPhone 18 Pro, which became available worldwide on Friday, starts at €1,489 (approximately $1,710) in Italy. Such launches are critical revenue drivers for the company, and any disruption, even localized, can draw investor attention to operational and labor-relations risks.

The protest occurs as Apple also prepares for the October 23 launch of its first foldable smartphone, the Duo, another event expected to drive heavy foot traffic to its stores. The outcome of the dispute in Italy could influence labor relations in other markets where retail workers have also sought to organize.