Summary
Over 1,000 Starbucks workers in the U.S. went on strike at 65 stores, aiming to disrupt the company's Red Cup Day due to stalled labor contract talks. The union wants better pay and working conditions, while Starbucks claims most stores remain open and offers competitive wages and benefits.
Key Facts
- More than 1,000 unionized Starbucks workers began a strike at 65 stores in the U.S.
- The strike targeted Red Cup Day, a busy day for Starbucks when free reusable cups are given out.
- Starbucks Workers United, the barista union, organized the strike and said several stores had to close.
- The union claims the company has not reached a contract agreement, with last negotiations in April.
- Workers demand higher pay, better hours, and improved staffing.
- Starbucks says it provides an average wage and benefits package worth $30 per hour.
- The coffee chain has 10,000 company-owned stores and 7,000 licensed locations in the U.S.
- Around 550 Starbucks stores in the U.S. are unionized, and 59 unionized stores closed in September.
