Starbucks Workers Union Prepares Strike Authorization Vote Amid Ongoing Labor Disputes
Starbucks Workers United is set to launch a strike authorization vote this Friday, potentially escalating labor tensions at the coffee giant. The union plans 70 practice pickets and rallies across 60 cities, with a possible open-ended strike from October 24 to November 2 if the vote passes. This marks the fourth work stoppage in two years.
Despite the labor unrest, Starbucks' stock (NASDAQ: SBUX) edged higher in Thursday trading. Union demands include better pay, improved hours, and resolution of legal issues. Starbucks maintains that bargaining positions remain unchanged.
Michelle Eisen of Starbucks Workers United stated: "Starbucks knows where we stand. They know our demands." The standoff highlights growing tensions in the service sector as unions push for better terms post-pandemic.