Starbucks Workers United Organizes Global Protests Supporting US Barista Strikes
Starbucks Workers United has planned coordinated protests across 10 countries, including the UK, on Wednesday in support of striking US baristas. The strike in the US has expanded to about 3,000 baristas in more than 100 cities, protesting for higher pay, better staffing, and addressing hundreds of unfair labor practice claims.
In the UK, Unite has organized rallies in London, Norwich, and Glasgow, with Glasgow workers participating in a work stoppage. Additional demonstrations are also planned in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and Turkey. Chicago, home to the largest Starbucks in the world, will be one of the key locations of protest.
Starbucks has stated that the strike affects only a fraction of its stores and that service continues normally. The company believes the action is unlikely to have a direct financial impact. Starbucks Workers United reports winning elections at over 600 stores, roughly 5% of the chain's company-owned US locations.
Negotiations stalled after CEO Brian Niccol took charge, leading to a mediator being involved since January. The disputes focus on pay, staffing, and alleged unfair labor practices.
Starbucks emphasizes that it offers industry-leading pay and benefits and has invested more than $500 million to improve staffing and training. The company reported a 1% increase in sales at its global stores open for at least one year in October, while US sales remained flat.
