Starbucks workers on strike over newly implemented dress code

Starbucks Workers Strike: Key Insights

Overview of the Strike

• Approximately 1,000 employees are on strike across nearly 70 Starbucks locations in protest against new company policies.

• The primary grievance is the implementation of a new dress code that workers claim is being enforced illegally.

Details of the New Dress Code

• The updated dress code requires baristas to wear plain black t-shirts and khaki or blue denim bottoms, restricting previous allowances for other dark colors and patterned shirts.

• Starbucks Workers United argues that changes to the dress code should be subject to collective bargaining as part of their rights.

Employee Concerns and Complaints

• Employees express frustration over unexpected costs associated with the new dress code, stating many cannot afford to purchase new uniforms while living paycheck to paycheck.

• A worker highlights that ongoing negotiations have stalled due to Starbucks making changes unrelated to working conditions.

Company Response

• In response, Starbucks claims it would be more productive if the union focused on negotiating rather than protesting, asserting that 99% of stores remain open during the strike.

Current Status of Negotiations

• As per a Starbucks representative, there have been nine bargaining sessions over 20 days since April, resulting in at least 30 meaningful agreements acknowledged by union representatives.