Union Certification at Via 313: A Lesson in Persistence and Transparency

On July 7, 2025, workers at Via 313’s North Campus location in Austin, Texas, achieved a major milestone: their union, Restaurant Workers United, was officially certified by the NLRB as their exclusive collective bargaining representative.

This victory followed a three-year campaign marked by contested elections, allegations of misconduct, and multiple legal challenges. Despite efforts by the employer—including claims around managerial influence and election tampering—the NLRB dismissed these objections, affirming the validity of the election.

Here’s what this development means—for workers and employers alike:

Key Takeaways

1. Worker persistence pays 
A long organizing campaign can succeed—even in the face of objections. This underscores the importance of listening early to employee concerns to prevent prolonged uncertainty.

2. Employers must act factually and transparently 
When objections are raised, the NLRB evaluates them on evidence—not emotion. Clear, lawful communication during organizing drives helps maintain trust and credibility.

3. Certified unions can reshape workplaces 
With official recognition, bargaining must begin in good faith—affecting staffing, wages, benefits, and more.

4. Employee engagement is essential 
Organizations that proactively address worker concerns—before campaigns begin—can reduce the risk of unionization or at least ensure fair, informed outcomes for all parties.

What This Means for You

Whether or not your workplace is unionized, this case highlights why employee voice and transparency matter:

- For companies: Regular, trusted conversations with workers can reveal genuine concerns early—before they escalate.
- For employees: Understanding your workplace rights—and having an independent resource to explain them—helps ensure informed decision-making.

At Action Resources, our Employee Opinion Surveys and NLRB Campaign Services are designed to help you do just that:

- Opinion Surveys surface concerns before they become campaigns.
- Campaign Services provide factual, neutral guidance during organizing drives—so employees can weigh their choices based on clarity, not confusion.

Watch this space for best practices on employee engagement, labor relations, and how to build a workplace rooted in trust.

Learn more about the Via 313 certification story here: 
https://austin.eater.com/restaurant-news/115274/via-313-north-campus-union-certified-restaurant-workers-united-2025