Starbucks Workers Expand Strike to Four More US Cities
Starbucks workers have expanded their strike to four more US cities, including New York, as the union representing over 10,000 baristas continues its five-day walkout. The strike, which began on Friday, now includes locations in Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle, New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, and St. Louis.
The union, Workers United, is demanding an immediate 64% increase in the minimum wage for hourly partners and 77% over the life of a three-year contract. Starbucks, however, has said the proposals are not sustainable and that the disruptions from the strike have had no significant impact on its operations.
The strike, which affects over 200,000 workers at more than 11,000 stores in the US, is taking place during the busy holiday season. The company operates more than 11,000 stores in the United States, employing about 200,000 workers.
Talks between Starbucks and the union hit an impasse, with unresolved issues over wages, staffing, and schedules, leading to the strike. The union has warned that the strike could reach “hundreds of stores” by Christmas Eve if an agreement is not reached. Starbucks has conducted more than eight bargaining sessions, during which 30 agreements were reached, but has reached an impasse with the union.