A strike by Starbucks workers has spread across the US, with more than 10,000 baristas participating in a five-day walkout. The Workers United union, which represents employees at over 500 stores, is demanding better pay, more staff, and improved schedules.
The strike, which began on Friday, will expand to multiple cities, including Columbus, Denver, and Pittsburgh, by Saturday. The union claims that Starbucks has failed to address its workers’ concerns, despite holding numerous bargaining sessions since April.
Starbucks has said it is willing to return to negotiations, but the union says the company has yet to present a serious economic proposal. The Workers United proposes an immediate 64% increase in minimum wages for baristas and a 77% increase over three years.
The strike comes as the coffee chain faces increased scrutiny over its labor practices. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has received hundreds of complaints alleging Starbucks’ refusal to bargain and engaging in bad faith bargaining over economic issues.
Starbucks, under new leadership, is working on a turnaround strategy aimed at restoring “coffee house culture.” However, the strike may impact sales during the holiday season, which could be detrimental to the company’s reputation.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/starbucks-workers-union-strike-friday-la-chicago-seattle-2024-12-20