Starbucks Workers Strike at Dozens of U.S. Stores on ‘Red Cup Day’
The stoppage fell on Red Cup Day, an annual promotion during which Starbucks customers receive bright-red reusable cups if they order a holiday-themed beverage. The union will also hold rallies in 17 cities, referring to the action as “Red Cup Rebellion.”
Workers United, which represents more than 12,000 baristas at over 600 locations, voted to authorize the strike last Wednesday, with 92 percent of baristas voting in favor. The union said in a news release that Starbucks had “stonewalled” its baristas, who were seeking better hours, more pay and the resolution of hundreds of unfair labor practice charges.