Fri Dec 05 21:35:50 UTC 2025: Starbucks Workers Strike Nationwide, Demand Contract Negotiations
New York, NY – Hundreds of Starbucks workers across the United States are engaged in an open-ended strike, demanding that the coffee giant negotiate a fair contract with their union, Starbucks Workers United. Picketers, joined by prominent politicians like Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and New York City councilmember Zohran Mamdani, took to the streets this week, disrupting business at locations like the iconic Empire State Building in New York City.
The strikes, ongoing since November 13th, intensified this week with demonstrations and arrests. Twelve individuals were reportedly arrested during a protest on Fifth Avenue in New York City, where workers held signs reading “No Contract, No Coffee” and accused Starbucks of stalling negotiations.
The conflict centers on wages, benefits, and working conditions. Starbucks Workers United claims starting wages in many states are insufficient and that many baristas are not given enough hours to qualify for benefits. The union has also refuted Starbucks’ claim that they are demanding an exorbitant 65% immediate pay increase, stating that it is a misrepresentation of their proposed economic options for negotiation.
Starbucks insists it offers competitive pay and benefits, citing an average of $30 per hour including benefits. The company also points to high employee engagement and low turnover rates as evidence of its positive work environment.
Adding to the pressure on Starbucks, the company recently settled a $38.9 million lawsuit with New York City for violations of the city’s Fair Workweek law. New York City officials also voiced support for the striking workers, further pressuring the company to negotiate.
The unionization effort at Starbucks began in Buffalo, New York, in 2021. Accusations of union-busting practices under previous CEO Howard Schultz, including surveillance and mandatory anti-union meetings, have further fueled the conflict.
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