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Starbucks Baristas Strike Over New Black Uniform Policy

Unionized workers protest the dress code change, citing financial strain and alleged legal violations, while Starbucks reports minimal disruption.

FILE - Starbucks baristas stand on stage, March 20, 2019, during an annual shareholders meeting in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, file)
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Overview

  • Over 1,000 baristas at more than 75 U.S. Starbucks locations have participated in strikes since May 11 to protest the company's new uniform policy.
  • The dress code, effective May 12, requires solid black shirts with black, khaki, or denim bottoms, with Starbucks providing two free branded shirts per employee but no guarantee of timely delivery.
  • Workers United has filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging the policy change violates labor laws by bypassing ongoing contract negotiations.
  • Starbucks defends the dress code as part of its 'Back to Starbucks' initiative to address declining sales and improve brand consistency, reporting limited operational impact from the strikes.
  • Union representatives argue the policy places an undue financial burden on employees and diverts focus from more pressing operational issues like understaffing.