Controversy Brews Over New Starbucks Location in Little Village

A New Chapter for Little Village Plaza

Starbucks is set to open a new location in the Little Village plaza, sparking controversy among community members who fear the coffee giant is replacing local small businesses.

The Brief

• • A Starbucks opening in Little Village is facing backlash for replacing local businesses.
  • Community members oppose the store unless Starbucks agrees to local hiring and community support.
  • The store will create 15 jobs, feature local artists, and involve diverse contractors.

The Concerns

In a statement, the Little Village Community Council expressed concerns about the negative impact of the new Starbucks location. “We have seen that money buys power here, and we have people power, which is more stronger than money,” said Baltazar Enriquez. “The community doesn’t need this type of businesses because we already have great coffee shops here in Little Village – artisanal coffee shops.”

What’s at Stake

For residents, the issue goes beyond just a new Starbucks location. It’s a matter of preserving the local identity and character of Little Village. “We are concerned that this new business will lead to gentrification and the displacement of existing businesses and residents,” said Antonio Miller-Perez. “Southwest neighborhoods in Chicago, particularly Pilsen and what is now Little Village, are facing an encroachment of gentrification, and part of that is destroying small businesses.”

The Community’s Plan

A group of residents has launched a campaign called “Not One Drop,” which seeks to boycott the new Starbucks location until the company agrees to meet with the community and address their concerns. “We have started a campaign called ‘Not One Drop,’ and there will be not one drop of Starbucks consumed by the community until they agree to meet with the community and agree to the demands of the community,” said Graciela Garcia.

The Company’s Response

In response to the controversy, a Starbucks spokesperson stated that the company is committed to investing in the local community and providing jobs and opportunities to residents. “This location will be the fourth community store in Chicago, employing 15 people, including nine from the Little Village community,” said the spokesperson. “The store will feature local artists and be built in partnership with diverse contractors.”

A Look Ahead

The new Starbucks location is slated to open on September 20. The company’s commitment to partnering with local artists and hiring diverse contractors is a promising step, but for now, the community remains uncertain about the impact of this new business on the area. Will the community accept the new Starbucks, or will they continue to demand changes to ensure that it aligns with their needs and values?

FAQs

Q: Why are residents opposing the new Starbucks location?
A: Residents are concerned that the new business will lead to gentrification and the displacement of existing businesses and residents.

Q: What does the community want Starbucks to do?
A: The community wants Starbucks to commit to local hiring at $20-$25 per hour, create a nonprofit Starbucks where profits after costs would go directly to the community, and protect the community’s flavor palette.

Q: What is Starbucks saying about the controversy?
A: Starbucks has committed to partnering with local artists and hiring diverse contractors.