Starbucks baristas escalate strike on Black Friday: Here's what to know

Labor Dispute & Unionization - Starbucks Workers United strike enters its third week, the longest since 2021, involving over 120 stores in 85+ cities with 200+ baristas [1] - The union represents 11,000 workers at 550 stores, seeking improved hours, higher wages, and resolution of unfair labor practice charges [1] - Negotiations between Starbucks and the union have stalled since late last year [1] - The union threatens to make this the largest and longest strike in its history [1] - Over 100 lawmakers, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have urged Starbucks to address worker demands and return to negotiations [5] - Previous CEO Howard Schultz testified before Capitol Hill regarding accusations related to the unionization push [6] Business Impact & Sales - Starbucks claims 99% of its 17,000 US locations remain open, anticipating no meaningful disruption from the strike [1] - Holiday sales have been strong, with the best sales day ever when the holiday menu launched [2] - Red Cup Day was the strongest in-store sales day in history [2] - The strike involves less than 1% of Starbucks' total store count [1][3] Political Involvement - Politicians are getting involved, including calls for boycotts [5]