**Las Vegas Culinary Union Reaches Agreement with Virgin Hotels, Ending Strike**
LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – The Las Vegas Culinary Union has unanimously approved a new agreement with Virgin Hotels, officially ending a strike that began in November 2024.
In a joint statement, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Culinary Workers Union Local 226, and Bartenders Union Local 165 announced they had reached a resolution on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. The statement emphasized a commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative working relationship that benefits all team members and their families while strengthening the local community.
FOX5 was on-site as union workers gathered at their headquarters to celebrate the victory. Union leader Ted Pappageorge addressed members, saying, “It feels good to win.”
The new five-year contract includes wage increases, with non-tipped workers earning $4.32 per hour and tipped workers earning $2.16 per hour. Additionally, employees will receive paid time off for the days they missed during the strike.
Workers expressed their satisfaction with the outcome. “We are proud to come back to work. We win, and we don’t do this for love; we do this for justice for our families because one job is enough,” said Jorge Martinez Rodriguez.
The strike, which began on November 15, lasted nearly three months. Virgin Hotels had previously expressed disappointment with the union, accusing it of not engaging in meaningful negotiations. The hotel also argued that the union’s demands were unrealistic, given the property’s location off the Las Vegas Strip.
Despite the challenges, workers are optimistic about the new contract. “This is amazing. We are finally getting back to work with the pay we deserve,” said Reiza Robles.
The Culinary Union represents 700 hospitality workers at Virgin Hotels. The previous contract expired on June 1, 2023, and union members have been advocating for a new agreement ever since. The next step will involve union employees voting to ratify the contract.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
*Copyright 2025 KVVU. All rights reserved.*
Source: fox5vegas.com