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Ufcw Local 360


UFCW Local 360 Market Research Report



Background



United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 360 is a labor union headquartered in West Berlin, New Jersey, representing a diverse workforce across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Formed through the merger of UFCW Locals 1360 and 1245, Local 360 advocates for employees in sectors such as retail, healthcare, municipalities, cannabis, and chemistry. The union is committed to ensuring fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members, emphasizing unity and solidarity to uphold workers' rights and well-being.

Key Strategic Focus



UFCW Local 360's strategic focus centers on organizing and empowering workers across various industries, with a notable emphasis on the burgeoning cannabis sector in New Jersey. The union's "Cannabis Workers Rising" campaign has been instrumental in unionizing employees at multiple dispensaries and cultivation sites, including Fresh Elizabeth LLC, NJ Leaf, Puffin Store NJ, and Curaleaf's Edgewater location. By fostering partnerships with cannabis businesses, Local 360 aims to create a regulated industry that delivers family-sustaining jobs and promotes social equity.

Financials and Funding



As of 2021, UFCW Local 360 reported total assets of $8,482,638 and liabilities amounting to $1,316,611. The union's income for that year was $6,861,346, primarily derived from member dues totaling $5,688,398. In November 2024, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) approved approximately $30.4 million in Special Financial Assistance for the UFCW Local 360 Labor-Management Pension Plan, ensuring the continuation of retirement benefits for its 6,117 participants.

Pipeline Development



UFCW Local 360's ongoing initiatives include expanding its representation within the cannabis industry. Recent successes encompass the unionization of workers at Fresh Elizabeth LLC in December 2024 and NJ Leaf in December 2023. The union continues to engage with employees across the cannabis supply chain, from cultivation and manufacturing to distribution and retail, aiming to enhance worker rights and industry standards.

Technological Platform and Innovation



While UFCW Local 360 does not develop proprietary technologies, it leverages digital platforms to facilitate communication and organization among its members. The union maintains an official website and active social media profiles to disseminate information, coordinate campaigns, and engage with the community.

Leadership Team



  • Sam Ferraino Jr., President: Oversees the union's strategic direction and operations.

  • Sherry Van Dyk, Secretary-Treasurer: Manages financial affairs and administrative functions.

  • Charles Vanartsdalen, Vice President: Supports leadership in various capacities.

  • Tim Terifay, Recording Secretary: Maintains records and documentation.

  • Hugh Giordano, Director of Organizing: Leads organizing efforts, particularly within the cannabis industry.


These leaders have been instrumental in advancing Local 360's mission, with Giordano playing a pivotal role in the successful unionization of multiple cannabis businesses.

Leadership Changes



As of the latest available information, there have been no significant recent changes in the leadership team of UFCW Local 360.

Competitor Profile



Market Insights and Dynamics



The cannabis industry in New Jersey has experienced rapid growth following the legalization of recreational marijuana sales in April 2022. This expansion has led to increased demand for labor representation to ensure fair employment practices and worker protections.

Competitor Analysis



UFCW Local 360 faces competition from other labor unions seeking to represent workers in the cannabis sector. However, its proactive approach and established presence have positioned it as a leading advocate for cannabis workers in the region.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships



UFCW Local 360 has established partnerships with various cannabis businesses, including NJ Leaf and Curaleaf, to facilitate the unionization process and promote labor peace agreements. These collaborations aim to create a stable and equitable working environment within the industry.

Operational Insights



The union's strategic focus on the cannabis industry has differentiated it from competitors, allowing it to capitalize on the sector's growth and advocate effectively for worker rights. By aligning with businesses that prioritize fair labor practices, Local 360 enhances its market position and influence.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions



Looking ahead, UFCW Local 360 aims to expand its representation within the cannabis industry and other sectors by continuing to organize workers and establish labor agreements. The union's commitment to advocacy, education, and support positions it to address evolving labor challenges and opportunities effectively.

Contact Information



  • Website: UFCW Local 360 Official

  • Social Media Profiles:

  • UFCW Local 360 Official Facebook Page

  • UFCW Local 360 Cannabis Division

  • UFCW 360 Twitter


For further inquiries, please refer to the contact details provided on the union's official website.