Starbucks Baristas Go on Strike in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle
Reasons Behind the Strike
Starbucks baristas in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle are planning to strike through Christmas Eve, demanding better pay and benefits from the company. The strike is a result of the ongoing negotiations between Starbucks Workers United and the company, which have been stalled over several months.
Union’s Demands
The union is pushing for a 64% increase to hourly employees’ wages immediately and a 77% pay hike over the life of a three-year contract. This comes after the company proposed no immediate pay increase and only guaranteed annual pay hikes of 1.5% going forward, according to the union.
Company’s Response
Starbucks released a statement saying that the union prematurely ended the bargaining session this week and that they are ready to continue negotiations to reach agreements. The company claims that the union’s demands are not sustainable and that they need to return to the table to negotiate.
Impact on Customers
The strike could lead to longer wait times for holiday drinks and popular merchandise, as many Americans will be off work and school or buying last-minute gifts. This could be a significant issue for the company, as it comes at a time when sales have been declining globally and in the US.
Background on the Negotiations
The relationship between the company and the union has been tense, with the two parties agreeing to work together on a "foundational framework" in late February. Since then, they have conducted more than nine bargaining sessions over 20 days. However, the negotiations stalled, leading to the current strike.
Other Worker Strikes
The strike is not unique to Starbucks, as Amazon workers across seven facilities went on strike on Thursday to pressure the e-commerce giant to come to the bargaining table.
Conclusion
The strike by Starbucks baristas highlights the ongoing struggle for fair wages and benefits in the service industry. As companies face declining sales and profits, workers are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. The strike is a testament to the growing movement for worker’s rights and fair treatment.
FAQs
Q: What is the reason behind the strike?
A: The strike is due to the ongoing negotiations between Starbucks Workers United and the company, which have been stalled over several months.
Q: What are the union’s demands?
A: The union is pushing for a 64% increase to hourly employees’ wages immediately and a 77% pay hike over the life of a three-year contract.
Q: What is the company’s response to the strike?
A: The company claims that the union prematurely ended the bargaining session and that they need to return to the table to negotiate.
Q: How will the strike affect customers?
A: The strike could lead to longer wait times for holiday drinks and popular merchandise, as many Americans will be off work and school or buying last-minute gifts.
