Starbucks workers, represented by the union, staged walkouts in several U.S. cities on Friday, protesting unresolved disputes over wages, staffing levels, and scheduling practices.
The union represents over 10,000 baristas nationwide, according to Reuters.
The union announced that the five-day strike, which started Friday and shut down Starbucks locations in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle, will extend to Columbus, Denver, and Pittsburgh by Saturday.
The strike is part of a broader wave of labour actions across service industries, following significant wins by workers in automotive, aerospace, and rail sectors.
Workers United, representing employees at 525 Starbucks locations, announced plans for escalating walkouts, potentially affecting “hundreds of stores” nationwide by Christmas Eve.
“It’s estimated that 10 stores out of 10,000 company-operated stores did not open today,” Starbucks said, adding that there was no significant impact to store operations on Friday.
About 20 people formed a picket line at a Starbucks on Chicago’s north side, braving snow and wind. Strikers cheered as cars honked in support, while some confused customers initially attempted to enter the closed store.
Union member Shep Searl noted that public reactions were largely positive.
Searl stated that all unionized workers at the Edgewater Starbucks in Chicago were participating in the strike.
Workers allege they have faced unfair labour practices, including unwarranted write-ups, “captive-audience” meetings, and firings.
Searl, who earns approximately $21 an hour, remarked, “That would have been a great wage in 2013,” emphasizing concerns over stagnant wages.
