Starbucks Workers Vote to Strike on Red Cup Day

Published 4 hours ago

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Above: Starbucks baristas protest against the company in Colorado Springs, on Oct. 29, 2025. Image copyright: Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

Starbucks already provides the best job in retail, with $19 hourly pay plus benefits totaling over $30 per hour, yet union representatives of just 4% of workers chose strikes over bargaining. The company's turnover rate sits at half the industry average and receives over one million job applications annually, proving workers want these roles. Union demands remain unreasonable amid generous existing compensation packages.

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Establishment-critical narrative

Starbucks baristas earning just $15.25 per hour in most states can't afford basic living expenses, forcing many onto SNAP and Medicaid while CEO Brian Niccol earned $98 million in four months. The company refuses to negotiate fair contracts after six months of stonewalling, committing over 500 labor law violations. A fair deal would cost less than one day's sales, but management prioritizes executive wealth over worker survival.

Starbucks Workers United