Virgin Hotel Casino Workers Ratify New Contract to End Longest Strike

After 69 days of striking, hospitality workers at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas have agreed to a new contract with the casino, ending the longest labor dispute in decades by Las Vegas culinary workers. The strike began in November when hundreds of staff members walked off their jobs.

The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165 announced through social media that they had secured a five-year contract for the nearly 700 employees they represent. The new agreement, which improves wages and benefits to match other Strip properties, replaces the previous contract that expired in June 2024.

Relief on Both Sides

The Culinary and Bartenders Unions issued a joint statement expressing relief now that the strike has ended. They noted that the new contract will help them overcome their disagreements and foster a productive and cooperative future.

"Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and the Culinary and Bartenders Unions are pleased to be moving past their contract negotiations as each looks forward to fostering a positive and collaborative working relationship of all team members at the property," the statement read.

Contract Contents

Union spokesperson Bethany Khan confirmed that the deal was put together in recent days before being unanimously approved by the unions' rank-and-file. The new agreement includes a significant salary increase of 32% over five years. This historic adjustment matches the raises witnessed in other properties in Las Vegas in 2024, despite Virgin initially arguing it was not financially feasible.

Throughout the strike, the union criticized Virgin for offering "second-class contracts" and hiring temporary workers. Union secretary-treasurer and lead negotiator Ted Pappageorge insisted the compensation workers requested was fair considering the rising cost of living in Las Vegas and high time demand in the hospitality industry.

A Historic Labor Dispute

While Virgin Hotels is off the Las Vegas strip, it garnered much attention and was visible to tourists. The union kept picket lines around the clock outside the property for the entire striking period. At one point, workers blocked traffic in an attempt to raise awareness of their labor issues, which ended in some arrests.

With the strike now ended, both parties have underscored their dedication to cooperation. The resolution follows the recent appointment of Cliff Atkinson and Chad Konrad as CEO and CFO, respectively.