According to information provided by Al Jazeera and relayed by Kazinform, a major strike by Starbucks workers has begun in the United States.
More than a thousand baristas, representing the Starbucks Workers United union, have left their jobs in over 40 cities across the country. The reason for this action was unsuccessful negotiations with the company's management regarding wage increases and improved benefits.
The strike began on Thursday and coincided with the popular event Red Cup Day — a sales day when customers can receive free reusable cups with the purchase of holiday drinks. This event typically attracts many customers to the coffee shops.
Starbucks, which operates more than 18,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada, claims that the strike has not yet had a significant impact on the operation of the chain. However, the union representing around 550 cafes warns that this protest could become the most significant in the company's history.
Strike hotspots have emerged in cities such as Seattle, New York, Philadelphia, Dallas, Austin, and Portland. Some establishments have already closed for the day. On social media, the union is urging customers to refrain from shopping at Starbucks and to support the strikers.
According to the company, the average wage for employees is $19 per hour, and those who work more than 20 hours a week receive additional benefits, including health insurance, paid parental leave, and the opportunity for free online education at Arizona State University. However, the union points out that the starting wage for most workers in various states does not exceed $15.25, and many baristas work less than 20 hours a week.
