Starbucks Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Authorize Potential Strike

The Starbucks Workers United union demands better pay, benefits, and resolution of unfair labor practices as negotiations with the company stall.

98% of Starbucks Workers United members voted to authorize a strike, representing over 10,000 workers across 525 stores in the U.S.
The union seeks higher wages, improved benefits, better scheduling policies, and resolution of hundreds of unresolved unfair labor practice charges.
Starbucks has participated in multiple bargaining sessions since April, reaching 30 tentative agreements on various issues, but has yet to present a comprehensive economic package addressing core demands.
CEO Brian Niccol, who took over in September, has introduced changes such as doubling paid parental leave starting in March 2025, but workers argue broader improvements are needed.
While a strike has been authorized, no date has been set, and both sides have indicated a willingness to continue negotiations into 2025.