Al Davis Way turned into a full-blown picket line Thursday evening as hundreds of Culinary Workers Union Local 226 members gathered outside Allegiant Stadium, pressing for higher pay, stronger job protections, and predictable annual raises for concession staff. The demonstration unfolded as fans arrived for a game, with organizers saying the timing was intentional to put a spotlight on what cooks, servers, and bartenders earn when the venue is packed. Union leaders framed the action as part of an ongoing fight to secure a contract that treats stadium jobs as year‑round work instead of disposable seasonal labor.
What the union wants
According to FOX5, the union represents more than 730 workers inside Allegiant Stadium and says those employees are bargaining for improved compensation tied to the football season and other large events hosted at the venue. The station reported that the picket happened Thursday evening and noted that Oak View Group, which oversees hospitality operations, did not respond to a request for comment.
Organizers say the core of their push is straightforward: consistent wage increases, stronger job security and health‑care protections that keep pace with the cost of living for hospitality workers.
Union leadership and message
The Culinary Union outlined its bargaining goals in a press advisory that said workers are seeking “job security, fair wage increases, and the best health care benefits.” In the same advisory, Secretary‑Treasurer Ted Pappageorge turned up the pressure on the company, saying, “It is time for this company to get this contract done,” and urging Oak View Group to “respect these workers” and agree to raises that match rising expenses.
The union emphasized that its members staff every major game and event at Allegiant Stadium and argued that they need reliable, year‑round protections, according to Culinary Workers Union Local 226.
OVG takeover and local fallout
Oak View Group took over Allegiant Stadium’s hospitality operations in early 2025 after Levy Restaurants exited the property, a shake‑up that temporarily left more than 1,000 Levy jobs in limbo, the Las Vegas Review‑Journal reported. Union organizers point to that transition as a key reason they want OVG to lock in a contract that clearly protects workers’ wages and benefits…