Workers at The Herbal Gardens in Tacoma have started bargaining for a better future.

Tacoma, WA (April 9th, 2026) — Workers at the Herbal Gardens in Tacoma had their first bargaining session after voting to unionize in January. "It's nice to see all of the work and planning come to fruition so it is very exciting to be here," said Brendan in anticipation of the negotiations, "I did a lot of research beforehand, so I am pretty ready to go."

The workers originally started organizing because they wanted stability and job security in a still-maturing industry. This bargaining session is the next step in taking ownership of their careers, shaping their collective future and prioritizing what matters most to them. The lack of transparency around policy enforcement and concerns over predatory surveillance discipline are at the top of their non-economic concerns. As Elizabeth, another long-standing employee, said "I think all employees should be treated equally and fairly. What we're doing here will ensure that."

Since legalization in Washington, UFCW Local 367 has advocated for recreational cannabis workers — cultivation, processing, and retail — across the South Sound. They are fighting for the vertical integration of sustainable careers from seed to sale.

"It's nice to see how organized UFCW 367 has been through the whole thing. It's nice being around professionals, for sure," reflected Brendan after their last bargaining committee meeting.

Any cannabis workers interested in forming a union should confidentially reach out to a UFCW Local 367 organizer to discuss their options.