More than 100 lawmakers push Starbucks to resume union negotiations

Core Points - Starbucks is facing pressure from lawmakers and union representatives to negotiate a fair contract with its workers, highlighting the company's financial capability to do so, as evidenced by CEO Brian Niccol's $95 million compensation package [1][2][3] - Workers United, representing Starbucks baristas, has received overwhelming support for a potential strike, with a 92% approval from its members, demanding better wages, hours, and resolution of unfair labor practices [4][6] - Current negotiations between Starbucks and Workers United have stalled, with both parties blaming each other for the lack of progress, despite previous mediation efforts [5][9] Company Financials - CEO Brian Niccol's compensation includes $90 million in stock awards, indicating significant financial resources available to the company [1] - Starbucks claims to offer competitive pay and benefits, averaging over $30 per hour for hourly partners, and asserts that Workers United represents only 4% of its workforce [8] Union Activities - Workers United has organized since 2021 and now claims to represent over 12,000 workers across more than 650 stores, although Starbucks disputes this, stating the union represents 9,500 workers at 550 cafes [6] - The union is threatening a strike coinciding with Starbucks' Red Cup Day, a major sales event, which could impact the company's holiday season performance [2][4] Negotiation Status - Negotiations have not been active since discussions broke down late last year, with both sides expressing readiness to negotiate but failing to reach an agreement [5][9] - Starbucks has indicated a willingness to return to the bargaining table, emphasizing its commitment to reaching a reasonable deal [8][9]