More than 1,600 employees across 17 Apple stores in Italy went on strike on Friday, coinciding with the global launch of the new iPhone 18 Pro. The strike, organized by the Filcams CGIL, Fisascat CISL and Uiltucs trade unions, is running throughout the day, with pickets planned outside several stores. In central Milan, dozens of workers gathered outside Apple’s flagship glass-cube store, waving red flags and using whistles and rattlers as customers queued to enter.
The unions said employees are facing worsening working conditions and increasing pressure as new iPhone launches bring additional responsibilities. They said staff roles have become increasingly focused on customer care, while concerns remain over employee well-being and staffing levels. The unions are demanding more hiring, permanent contracts for fixed-term workers and the option for part-time employees to increase their working hours.
Apple said its retail and online stores were operating normally and that it remained excited to welcome customers on the iPhone 18 Pro launch day. The company said it was proud to provide industry-leading compensation and benefits, including private medical, dental and vision coverage and mental health and wellness support. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at €1,489 in Italy, while Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the Duo, is scheduled to launch on October 23.
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