Pronunciation: [ˈə͡ʊpən ʃˈɒp] (IPA) 
The spelling of "open shop" follows the standard English phonetic system. The word "open" has the vowel sound /oʊ/ (as in "oat") and the consonant sound /p/ (as in "pat"). The word "shop" has the vowel sound /ɑ/ (as in "father") and the consonant sound /ʃ/ (as in "sheep"). When pronounced together as "open shop," this phrase represents a type of workplace in which employees are not required to join a labor union.
An open shop refers to a type of employment model or workplace where employees have the right to choose whether or not to join and financially support a labor union. It is typically associated with countries that uphold the principles of freedom of association and individual employee rights. In an open shop, employees have the freedom to decide whether to become union members, pay union dues, or participate in union activities.
Open shops offer the employees the privilege of opting out of union membership without facing any negative consequences, such as termination or discrimination. Furthermore, employers in open shop environments generally cannot require union membership as a condition of employment. This means that employees who choose not to join a union are not obliged to pay any form of union fees, but they still receive the same benefits and protections provided under the collective bargaining agreements negotiated by the union.
It is important to note that open shop systems can vary depending on local labor laws and employment regulations. While open shop arrangements are more common in countries that prioritize individual rights and free choice, different countries may have different legal frameworks that impose certain restrictions or requirements on open shop workplaces.
The term "open shop" originated in the United States in the early 20th century during the labor movement. Its etymology is related to the concept of a "closed shop", which referred to a workplace where only union members were allowed to be employed. In contrast, an "open shop" referred to a workplace that did not have such a restriction and allowed both union and non-union workers to be employed. The phrase "open shop" is formed by combining the adjective "open" (meaning accessible or unrestricted) with the noun "shop" (representing a place of work).
