NEW YORK (AP) — The nationwide Starbucks workers’ strike is expected to expand to hundreds of stores on Christmas Eve, union officials said Tuesday, marking the final day of a five-day walkout during one of the coffee chain’s busiest periods.
Starbucks Workers United announced the work stoppage will affect more than 300 U.S. locations Tuesday, expanding from initial strikes in Chicago, Los Angeles and Seattle to include Atlanta, Buffalo, Boston, Dallas, New York and Philadelphia.
The company reported about 60 store closures Monday but emphasized that 97-99% of its 10,000 U.S. locations remain operational. “The work stoppages will have a very limited impact to our overall operations,” said Sara Kelly, executive vice president.
The strike follows failed contract negotiations that began in April. The union seeks improved wages, benefits and staffing, while Starbucks calls demands for a 64% immediate wage increase and 77% rise over three years “not sustainable.”
Starbucks maintains it offers competitive compensation, including an $18 per hour average wage and benefits like healthcare and tuition assistance. Since 2021, 535 Starbucks locations have unionized.
The walkout represents the largest labor action against the company to date, targeting the crucial holiday shopping period.
