Starbucks workers' union escalates strike on Black Friday

Core Viewpoint - The Starbucks workers' union is escalating an indefinite strike to over 120 stores across 85 cities, demanding higher pay and better staffing levels, marking the longest strike in Starbucks' history [1] Group 1: Strike Details - The strike began on Red Cup Day, November 13, involving 65 stores in more than 40 cities [1] - The strike coincides with Black Friday, a peak shopping period for retailers [1] Group 2: Company Response - Starbucks maintains that 99% of its locations in the U.S. remain open and does not anticipate any meaningful disruption from the strike [2][6] - A spokesperson for Starbucks stated that they do not expect significant operational impacts despite the strike [3] Group 3: Union Demands and Negotiations - Striking employees are demanding higher wages, improved working hours, and resolution of unfair labor practice charges related to union busting [3] - Contract negotiations have stalled, with previous proposals from Starbucks being rejected by union delegates [3] Group 4: Union Representation - Workers United represents over 11,000 baristas across approximately 550 Starbucks stores [5]