City of Seattle
The Seattle Office of Labor Standards (OLS) announced that they have reached a settlement with Red Robin International, Inc. (Red Robin) for alleged violations of the City of Seattle’s Secure Scheduling and Wage Theft Ordinances.
According to OLS, the allegations stem from an investigation for alleged violations at Red Robin’s Northgate restaurant location between January 1, 2018, and September 7, 2022. Red Robin settled the allegations and agreed to pay a total financial remedy of $401,986.68 to 343 employees and $250.32 to the City of Seattle.
OLS alleged that the restaurant failed to post work schedules at least 14 days in advance, pay employees for employer-initiated schedule changes, and provide required rest and meal breaks.
Red Robin also agreed to develop and implement written policies that comply with the Secure Scheduling and Wage Theft Ordinances and state law.
“After having to have numerous discussions and arguments with managers regarding employees’ rights, I’m glad to see that contacting the OLS has led to them being held accountable, and to my former coworkers being guaranteed a healthier work environment moving forward,” said Ayoub Dib, a former Red Robin employee.
“This whole experience has made me realize how important it is to find a job that respects the individual. Working for someone, a big restaurant corporation in this case, that only cares about sales rather than their employees affects more than your ability to work,” said Rachael Benson, a former Red Robin employee.
Red Robin has more than 500 employees and 500 locations worldwide and currently operates one Seattle location.
“At Red Robin we are committed to doing the right thing, the right way, no matter what. The strength of Red Robin is our people. We have reached a negotiated settlement with no admission of fault to put this matter behind us and focus on our work environment that recognizes the contributions of our team members in a fair and equitable way,” said a spokesperson for Red Robin.
“Workers have the right to know when they’re going to work and how many hours they’ll be working. The Secure Scheduling Ordinance recognizes that workers have lives too and that predictability in work schedules can have a profound impact on both work life and life away from work. As we enter the holiday season and the possibility of scheduling changes, OLS reminds businesses covered by this ordinance that we provide support to ensure you are in compliance with the law, not only to avoid a potential investigation but to maintain a just workplace,” said Steven Marchese, OLS Director.
