International Protests Support US Starbucks Workers Amid Expanded Strike
International protests are planned across 10 countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and Turkey, in support of US Starbucks workers. These actions are scheduled for Wednesday.
The strike in the US has expanded to about 3,000 baristas across more than 100 cities who are demanding higher pay, better staffing, and resolution of hundreds of unfair labor practice claims. Starbucks reports that the strike affected less than 1% of its shops and had no impact on its overall business.
In the UK, rallies organized by the Unite union will take place in London, Norwich, and Glasgow, where workers will also join a work stoppage. Demonstrations are also planned at Starbucks stores and offices in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and Turkey. Additionally, Chicago will host a protest at the world's largest Starbucks.
Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol oversees the company, which asserts that its pay and benefits are industry-leading, with baristas on average receiving more hours per week. The company plans to invest more than $500 million to improve staffing and training.
In October, global Starbucks stores open for at least one year reported a 1% sales growth, while US sales remained flat.
Starbucks Workers United, formed four years ago, says it has won elections at more than 600 stores, roughly 5% of company-owned US locations. However, talks stalled after Niccol took charge last September, leading to a mediator being brought in January over issues of pay, staffing, and alleged unfair labor practices.
