Los Angeles: A union representing over 11,000 Starbucks baristas in the US has announced a five-day strike beginning Friday, December 20th morning, with workers in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle set to walk out over disputes regarding pay and working conditions.
The union, Workers United, warns that if a resolution isn’t reached, the strike could spread to hundreds of stores by Christmas Eve.
The strike comes after the union called for higher wages, increased staffing, and improved scheduling for workers.
A Starbucks spokesperson responded, saying they are open to continuing negotiations, but emphasized that the company already offers average pay exceeding $18 per hour and comprehensive benefits, which together are valued at around $30 per hour for baristas working at least 20 hours per week.
Workers United represents employees at over 500 Starbucks locations across 45 states, and some workers stated that the strike is a last resort after Starbucks failed to meet its promises to workers.
🔥 TWAS THE STRIKE BEFORE CHRISTMAS! 🔥✊
Starbucks baristas are going on five days of escalating ULP strikes in response to the company backtracking on our promised path forward, starting tomorrow in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle… and soon, from coast-to-coast. 🧵 pic.twitter.com/MXP07DJhEJ
— Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) December 20, 2024
The union has also highlighted a pay disparity between workers and senior management, particularly CEO Brian Niccol, whose base salary is $1.6 million, with the potential for large performance bonuses and stock options.
In response, Starbucks defended Niccol’s compensation, calling him one of the industry’s most effective leaders, with his pay linked to the company’s performance.
The strike occurs amidst declining sales and public backlash over price increases and boycotts related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Meanwhile, the Teamsters union is also protesting Amazon’s labour practices as the company faces mounting pressure during the busy holiday season.
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