Starbucks Workers Expand Strike to Four More US Cities
Starbucks workers have expanded their five-day strike to four more US cities, including New York, according to the union representing over 10,000 baristas. The strike, which began on Friday, initially closed Starbucks cafes in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle, and has added locations in New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, and St. Louis.
The strike has added significant momentum, with the union striking in a total of 10 cities, also including Columbus, Ohio; Denver, and Pittsburgh. The strike comes during the busy holiday season, which could impact Starbucks’ Christmas sales.
According to Starbucks, the disruptions from the strike have no significant impact on its operations, as only a small handful of US stores have been impacted. However, the union has warned that the strike could reach “hundreds of stores” by Tuesday, Christmas Eve.
The union is demanding an immediate increase in the minimum wage of hourly partners by 64%, and by 77% over the life of a three-year contract. Starbucks, however, has rejected this proposal, citing that it is not sustainable.
The strike was prompted by talks between Starbucks and the union hitting an impasse with unresolved issues over wages, staffing, and schedules. The company operates over 11,000 stores in the US, employing around 200,000 workers.