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Arbitrator Blocks EPCOT Italy Pavilion Strike, Citing Disney No‑Strike Clause

The ruling keeps EPCOT’s Italy restaurants open during ongoing Patina–UNITE HERE contract talks.

Overview

  • The arbitrator found that Disney’s resort master no‑strike clause applies to subcontracted Patina Restaurant Group employees at Tutto Italia, Via Napoli, and Tutto Gusto.
  • More than 70 workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 737 had authorized a walkout that would have been the first by food‑service employees on Walt Disney World property.
  • Union leaders voiced disappointment with the decision and said they will continue bargaining with Patina after the prior contract expired on September 30.
  • Worker demands include an $8‑per‑hour raise phased over three years, a pension, more affordable health insurance, and a 20% automatic gratuity, with current pay around $18.50–$26.48 per hour.
  • Disney stated it values its union partnerships, and the Italy Pavilion restaurants are operating normally as the ruling’s implications for subcontracted workers draw wider attention.