Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Starbucks Baristas Launch National Strike-Authorization Vote

A yes result would authorize an open-ended unfair labor practice strike to press for a first contract.

Overview

  • The vote opened Friday and runs through Nov. 2, with results expected after the ballot closes.
  • Workers United is staging about 70 rallies and pickets across roughly 60 U.S. cities through Nov. 1 to encourage turnout.
  • Contract talks collapsed in December 2024, mediation failed early this year after delegates rejected Starbucks’ April proposal, and the parties are not currently bargaining.
  • The union says it represents more than 12,000 workers at over 600–650 stores and seeks improved staffing and hours, higher take-home pay, and resolution of hundreds of unfair labor practice charges.
  • Starbucks says the union covers about 4% of partners across roughly 550 company-owned stores, cites average compensation topping $30 an hour and added staffing investments, while investors urged renewed talks and the union filed an IOC complaint over the 2028 Olympics partnership.