Union representatives confirmed to USA TODAY on Monday that the ongoing strike by Starbucks union workers has now expanded to a dozen states.
The five-day strike commenced on Friday, leading to the closure of Starbucks locations in major cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle. The impact soon extended to cafes in New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Denver, Pittsburgh, and Columbus, Ohio, as reported by Starbucks Workers United.
On Monday morning, labor representatives informed USA TODAY that union members in Boston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Portland, Oregon have also participated in picket lines.
According to Starbucks spokesperson Phil McGee, the “few disruptions” experienced have not significantly affected the company’s operations, as only a limited number of locations have been impacted.
Union officials had earlier cautioned that the strike might extend to ‘hundreds of stores’ by Christmas Eve.
Union representatives announced that an overwhelming 98% of union members have recently cast their votes in favor of protesting against low wages, staffing shortages, and inadequate benefits.
According to Reuters, the business operates over 11,000 stores nationwide and employs nearly 200,000 individuals.
“We acknowledge our partners’ right to participate in lawful strike activities, and we commend the thousands of partners nationwide who are supporting one another and providing the Starbucks experience for our customers,” McGee stated in a release obtained by USA TODAY on Monday.
Late last week, Starbucks Workers United issued a warning that the strike might expand to “hundreds of stores” by Christmas Eve.
The union has announced that its representatives are prepared to return to the bargaining table to address their grievances.
