Starbucks Employees Launch 65-Store Strike on Red Cup Day

In a significant labor action, more than 1,000 unionized Starbucks employees have initiated a strike across 65 U.S. locations. This protest occurred on Red Cup Day, renowned as one of Starbucks’ busiest sales days, when customers receive free reusable cups with holiday beverage purchases.

Strike Details and Locations

The strike is organized by Starbucks Workers United and is designed to protest the stalled labor negotiations with the company. The impacted stores span 45 cities, including:

• New York
• Philadelphia
• Minneapolis
• San Diego
• St. Louis
• Dallas
• Columbus, Ohio
• Seattle

Early reports indicate that some stores have already closed, and organizers state the strike may expand if negotiations do not progress. Currently, there is no set timeline for the strike’s conclusion.

Context of the Strike

The striking employees are voicing their frustration over unresolved contract agreements. Baristas initially voted to unionize at a Buffalo store in 2021. Despite promises to finalize an agreement by late 2024, negotiations have faced setbacks under the leadership of current Chairman and CEO Brian Niccol.

Workers’ Demands

Striking workers are calling for enhanced staffing levels, improved pay, and better working hours. Many employees report being assigned fewer than 20 hours weekly, limiting their access to company benefits. For example, barista Dochi Spoltore from Pittsburgh earns $16 per hour and expressed a desire for change, stating, “We’re proud of our work, but we’re tired of being treated like we’re disposable.”

Company’s Position

Starbucks counters that it offers competitive wages and benefits, with an average compensation package valued at $30 per hour. The company provides various employee benefits, including 18 weeks of paid family leave and full tuition coverage for college education. Starbucks insists that some of the union’s proposals would disrupt operational efficiency.

Previous Strike Actions

This is not the first instance of unionized workers striking at Starbucks. Similar actions took place during Red Cup Day in previous years. Notably, a five-day strike last Christmas resulted in the closure of 59 stores. However, the company’s representatives maintain that such strikes minimally disrupt operations.

Impact on Business Operations

Starbucks reported a modest increase in same-store sales of 1% in the third quarter, marking the first rise in nearly two years. This improvement comes as Starbucks focuses on creating a more welcoming atmosphere in stores and addressing staffing issues during peak hours.

As the strike persists, the spotlight remains on Starbucks and its negotiations with unionized workers. The outcome of this labor action may significantly affect both employee relations and company operations in the future.