Starbucks Strike Enters Third Week Deadlocked With Both Sides Holding Firm

Core Points - The Starbucks Workers United has escalated its "Red Cup Rebellion" strike, with 120 stores in 85 cities participating, while Starbucks claims fewer than half that number were affected and that disruptions have been minimal over the past three weeks [1][4] - Over 1,000 Starbucks workers have gone on strike at approximately 65 stores, with the union alleging that Starbucks has not made new proposals on staffing and pay since an offer was rejected in April [2][3] - The union claims that baristas in 550 unionized stores are ready to continue the strike until a fair contract is delivered and unfair labor practices are addressed [3][5] Key Facts - Since the strike began on November 13, the number of stores on the strike list has increased weekly, now totaling 120 [3] - Starbucks disputes the impact of the strike, stating that many stores listed never closed and that this year's "Red Cup Day" was the largest sales day in the company's history despite the strike [4][5] - Currently, negotiations between Starbucks and the union have stalled after nearly 200 hours of discussions and over 30 tentative agreements were reached through April [4][5] Background Information - The union claims that 2,500 of its 11,000 members are on strike, while Starbucks asserts that only about 9,500 baristas, or 4% of its workforce, belong to the union, affecting fewer than 1% of its 10,000 stores [5] - More than 125,000 individuals have signed the "No Contract, No Coffee" pledge, indicating significant public support for the union's cause [4]