Amazon and Starbucks Workers Strike Over Labor Contracts Ahead of Christmas

Strikes across major U.S. cities demand better pay, benefits, and working conditions as unions push for recognition and agreements.

Amazon delivery drivers and warehouse workers, organized by the Teamsters, launched strikes after the company refused to negotiate a labor contract by the union's December 15 deadline.
Starbucks Workers United began strikes in multiple cities, seeking higher wages, improved benefits, and resolution of ongoing labor disputes with the company.
The strikes are strategically timed during the holiday season to pressure the companies and highlight worker demands to consumers and the public.
Amazon claims the striking delivery drivers are not its employees but rather contractors, a stance challenged by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which has ruled they are joint employees.
Labor experts suggest the strikes may also be a push to secure progress before the incoming Trump administration, which is expected to adopt a more pro-business stance.