Starbucks Workers Launch Strike Across More Than 40 US Cities
On November 13, 2025, more than 1,000 Starbucks workers across over 40 US cities initiated a strike affecting about 65 stores initially. The strike, authorized by Starbucks Workers United, is classified as an unfair labor practice (ULP) strike following a vote where 92% of union members supported an open-ended work stoppage. Organizers aim to expand the strike during the holiday-driven schedule, particularly around the "red cup day."
The union has been engaged in negotiations with Starbucks management for a first union contract since early 2025, but talks have stalled. Union demands include improved staffing and pay. In addition, the union has filed hundreds of ULP charges against Starbucks, urging customers to boycott the company under the campaign "no contract, no coffee" to pressure for a fair contract.
Starbucks expressed disappointment with the strike vote and stated that the vast majority of its stores will remain unaffected. According to the company, Starbucks Workers United represents about 4% of its partners. The company asserts that it offers more than $30 per hour on average for hourly partners and highlights factors such as high partner engagement, turnover below the industry average, and over 1 million job applications annually. Starbucks also stated that it expects to serve the majority of its locations during the holiday season.
Since 2021, more than 650 Starbucks stores have unionized. In September 2025, Starbucks announced plans to close more than 100 North American cafes and lay off approximately 900 corporate staff. The ongoing strike aims to compel Starbucks management to provide proposals that meet union demands and to finalize a contract following months of stalled negotiations.
