What is a "closed shop" in labor relations?

A "closed shop" in labor relations refers to a workplace in which only union members can be hired. This means that in order to be employed at this workplace, individuals must first join the union, thereby ensuring that all employees are union members right from the outset of their employment. This setup is aimed at supporting the strength and negotiating power of the union, as it creates a workforce that is uniformly aligned with union interests and its collective bargaining efforts.

This practice also underscores the commitment to maintaining a specific standard of work conditions and employee rights that the union seeks to uphold. By limiting hiring solely to union members, a closed shop can help ensure cohesive representation and advocacy for employee needs and benefits, further stabilizing the union's role within the business environment.