Starbucks Workers United says the strike will hit at least 25 cities, including Chicago, with more stores joining if negotiations stall. The timing coincides with Red Cup Day, one of Starbucks’ busiest promotional events.
Union leaders say the company has stalled on promises made under former CEO Laxman Narasimhan, leaving pay and staffing concerns unresolved.
Baristas want higher wages, guaranteed hours to secure benefits, and protections against unfair labor practices. They point to CEO Brian Niccol’s nearly $96 million 2024 compensation as proof of the company’s wealth.
The company says union proposals are unrealistic, including pay hikes exceeding 60% and operational changes like pausing mobile orders during peak hours. Starbucks emphasizes that most stores, including corporate and licensed locations, will remain open even during the strike.
This isn’t the first time Starbucks employees have walked off the job. In 2023, thousands struck during Red Cup Day, and in 2024, a pre-holiday walkout closed nearly 60 U.S. stores.
Both Starbucks and the union say they’re open to negotiations, but with Red Cup Day approaching, a national strike could turn one of the chain’s signature events into a flashpoint in the ongoing labor battle.