Starbucks Workers Expand Strike to More U.S. Cities Amid Union Standoff

Starbucks workers have broadened their strike to additional U.S. cities, including New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and St. Louis, the Workers United union announced late Saturday. This escalation comes after the five-day strike initially shuttered cafes in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle. Specific details about the strike locations in New Jersey were not disclosed.

The walkouts, prompted by unresolved disputes over wages, staffing levels, and scheduling, now span ten cities, including Columbus, Denver, and Pittsburgh. The strike coincides with Starbucks’ busy holiday season, potentially impacting its Christmas sales. Workers United has warned that the strike could grow to “hundreds of stores” by Christmas Eve, intensifying the pressure on the coffee chain.

Starbucks has yet to comment on the latest developments outside regular business hours.

Negotiations and Union Stalemate

Negotiations between Starbucks and Workers United began in April, but progress has been slow. The company has conducted over eight bargaining sessions, reportedly reaching 30 agreements. However, key issues remain unresolved, leading to the current impasse.

Broader Impact

The strike affects a small fraction of Starbucks’ operations—out of its 11,000 U.S. stores employing approximately 200,000 workers—but the targeted disruption during a critical retail period underscores the workers’ demands.

Workers United, which represents over 10,000 baristas, continues to push for better terms and conditions, signaling a potentially prolonged standoff during the high-demand holiday period.