Encore Boston Harbor Workers Prepare Contract Vote as Revenue Figures Emerge

The unions representing 1,350 workers at Wynn Resorts’ Encore Boston Harbor casino have scheduled a vote for August 19-20 on whether to authorize a strike beginning September 1; this timeline aligns with the expiration of current contracts on August 31. Members from Unite Here Local 26 and Teamsters Local 25 will cast ballots on the measure after negotiations failed to produce renewed agreements that include wages above the existing $25 per hour minimum along with enhanced pension provisions. The property reported nearly $847 million in total revenue for 2025 along with $236.7 million in adjusted EBITDA, a figure that declined 4.2 percent from the prior year. Union representatives have referenced these results during talks as evidence that the casino can accommodate improved compensation terms.

Details of the Authorization Process

Workers will participate in the two-day vote at locations coordinated by the locals; a majority in favor would clear the path for a work stoppage on September 1 if management does not meet the outlined demands. Current contracts cover roles such as dealers, hotel staff, food and beverage employees, and maintenance personnel across the integrated resort. Contract talks have centered on wage increases beyond the present floor and adjustments to retirement benefits that the unions describe as essential for long-term retention. The casino operates under Massachusetts gaming regulations that require labor peace provisions in certain licensing conditions, though the specific impact of any work action remains subject to future developments.

Financial Performance and Industry Context

Revenue and EBITDA numbers for 2025 reflect continued operations at the Everett location, which opened in 2019 and functions as one of two casino resorts authorized in the state. Figures released by the company show the property maintained strong overall earnings despite the year-over-year dip in adjusted EBITDA.

Observers note that casino performance data often serves as a reference point during collective bargaining, and union statements have highlighted the reported totals when presenting proposals. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission publishes periodic reports on statewide gaming revenue, providing additional benchmarks for properties operating under its oversight.

Union Representation and Workforce Scope

Unite Here Local 26 organizes hospitality workers including those in hotel operations and food service, while Teamsters Local 25 represents transportation and certain skilled trades at the site. Together the two locals account for the 1,350 members referenced in the current dispute. Contract expiration occurs at the end of August, creating the immediate deadline that prompted the scheduled authorization vote. Historical patterns in similar negotiations show that authorization votes often precede final agreements or extensions, though outcomes depend on continued discussions between the parties.

Potential Timeline and Next Steps

If the vote passes, the strike could begin September 1; management and union leaders retain the option to reach a deal before that date. Both sides have conducted multiple bargaining sessions without public disclosure of specific counteroffers beyond the core issues of wages and pensions. The resort continues normal operations while talks proceed, and no service disruptions have been reported to date. State labor agencies track such developments through standard reporting channels, and any work action would fall under applicable federal and Massachusetts statutes governing private-sector unions.

Conclusion

The August 19-20 vote represents the next formal step in the contract renewal process at Encore Boston Harbor, with the unions tying their position to the property’s reported financial results. Workers, management, and regulators now await the outcome of the balloting and any subsequent movement at the bargaining table before the August 31 deadline.