Starbucks strike expands to over 300 stores across US

Union seeks formal contract that would guarantee improved benefits, wages, and working conditions

A strike involving Starbucks workers has expanded to more than 300 stores across the United States, with over 5,000 employees walking off the job, according to the workers’ union, Starbucks Workers United.

The strike, which began on Friday, is set to end on Tuesday and coincides with the busy holiday season.

The walkout has affected over 60 stores in 12 major cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Boston, and Seattle. Starbucks Workers United, which represents employees at 525 stores nationwide, cited unresolved issues related to wages, staffing, and scheduling as the key reasons for the strike. 

The union seeks a formal contract that would guarantee improved benefits, wages, and working conditions, which they argue could not be reduced without further negotiations.

The strike, particularly notable for occurring on Christmas Eve, is projected to be the largest in the history of Starbucks. The union described the action as an initial demonstration of strength, with workers vowing to continue their efforts.

Starbucks, which operates over 10,000 company-owned stores in the US, reported that 98% of its stores remained open, with approximately 170 closed on Tuesday. 

The company downplayed the impact of the strike, claiming it would have a "very limited impact" on overall operations. Starbucks also highlighted its readiness to resume negotiations once the union returns to the bargaining table, after accusing union delegates of prematurely ending previous talks.

Earlier in December, the union rejected a proposal from Starbucks that included no immediate wage increases but promised a 1.5% pay raise in future years. The workers' group also criticised the company for not offering a “serious economic proposal” that adequately addresses their concerns.

As the strike continues, it highlights the ongoing tensions between Starbucks and its employees over labour conditions, particularly as the company navigates one of the busiest periods of the year.