Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Workers in St. Louis Vote to Unionize
Workers at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in St. Louis have voted to unionize, citing a significant drop in tips and reduced hours following the implementation of a new online ordering system. The vote is seen as the formation of the…
St. Louis, MO, October 2, 2026 — Workers at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema located in St. Louis have cast a vote to unionize. This development marks a significant step, potentially representing the first modern-era movie theater union established in the state of Missouri.
The decision to unionize stems from several concerns raised by the employees. Among the primary issues cited are a significant drop in tips and reduced working hours. These changes reportedly occurred after the cinema implemented a new online ordering system.
In addition to the financial impacts on tips and hours, employees have also voiced concerns regarding scheduling transparency. Workers have expressed a desire for clearer communication and predictability in their work schedules. Furthermore, employees noted issues with a service fee that is applied, but which they state does not directly benefit them.
The formation of this union is being recognized for its pioneering status within the movie theater industry in Missouri. The vote is seen as a collective effort by the cinema staff to address workplace conditions and seek improvements through organized representation.
Story summarized from the original created by Sonal Churiwal on www.stlpr.org, see more information here.
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