Philadelphia's OCF Coffee House chain, owned by businessman Ori Feibush, abruptly closed its three locations in Fairmount, Rittenhouse, and Point Breeze, just a week after workers announced their intent to unionize. The sudden closures left customers like Brandon Berkey and about three dozen employees shocked and displaced. Workers accuse Feibush of union-busting, citing the lack of notice and demanding severance pay. Feibush, however, denies union-busting but acknowledges that the costs associated with the unionization efforts contributed to his decision. Rising operational costs, reduced sales, and the expiration of leases also played roles, according to Feibush. He claims he attempted to discuss transitional support, including extending employee benefits, but only managers attended the meeting. Workers, undeterred, vow to continue fighting for fair compensation and accountability. The sudden shutdown has ignited a broader conversation on the challenges of unionization in small businesses and the responsibilities of business owners toward their employees.
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