Pro-Union Flyers Emerge at Starbucks HQ Amid Nationwide Strikes
BREAKING: Pro-union flyers have surfaced at Starbucks’ Seattle headquarters as baristas initiate their fourth nationwide strike in two years. The strike, launched by employees at 65 stores across 40 cities, aims to pressure the company into finalizing their first union contract.
The flyers, which began appearing this week, have been spotted in hallways and bathroom stalls throughout the corporate office. They express solidarity with striking baristas, stating, “Baristas deserve better pay and staffing. SSC workers support a fair contract!” This move comes just as the baristas launched their strike on Red Cup Day, a crucial promotional event for the company.
Corporate employees have reported that during a recent HR meeting, staff were urged to inform their managers of any pro-union actions they observe, although they were instructed not to intervene, as it could be considered “protected concerted activity.” This term covers discussions related to wages and working conditions, which are legally protected under labor laws.
The flyers also take aim at CEO Brian Niccol‘s hefty compensation package, valued at $96 million for 2024. One flyer humorously contrasts “Raises for partners” against “Raises for Brian,” highlighting the stark disparity between Niccol’s earnings and the median salary of Starbucks employees, which stands at just $14,674. The disparity has drawn significant criticism, marking Niccol’s pay as the highest ratio among companies listed in the S&P 500.
In August, Starbucks announced a flat 2% pay raise for salaried employees, amidst ongoing cost-cutting measures related to its turnaround strategy. Meanwhile, the company is investing $500 million to improve staffing and training under its Green Apron Service model, even as labor tensions continue to escalate.
Since 2021, over 550 of Starbucks’ nearly 17,000 stores in the US have voted to unionize, reflecting a growing movement among employees. However, negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement have stalled for nearly a year, with both sides blaming each other for the impasse.
Despite the ongoing strike, Starbucks has reported record-breaking sales during this year’s holiday launch, claiming their best Reusable Red Cup Day ever. However, the company faces increasing scrutiny from its employees and the public, as labor disputes remain unresolved.
As the situation develops, observers are urged to monitor potential further actions from both baristas and corporate staff. The emergence of these flyers signifies a growing wave of support among employees for better working conditions and fair wages across the company.
This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.
