Starbucks Union Authorizes Potential Strike

(Reuters) – The workers' union representing more than 10,000 Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) baristas has authorized a potential strike ahead of the final bargaining talks with the coffee giant on Tuesday.

Workers United, representing workers at 525 U.S. Starbucks locations, stated that Starbucks has yet to present a comprehensive economic package, amidst numerous unresolved legal disputes over unfair labor practices.

The union is pushing for increased wages, improved staffing, and better schedules but has not determined the timing of a potential strike.

Starbucks expressed disappointment in the union's authorization and emphasized its commitment to reaching a final agreement.

Negotiations commenced in April for a foundational framework guiding collective bargaining and addressing pending legal disputes. Starbucks noted it has conducted over eight bargaining sessions, reaching 30 agreements on various issues.

Following the previous negotiations in September, new CEO Brian Niccol committed to constructive engagement with the union.

Recently, Starbucks increased its paid parental leave from 6 to 18 weeks for employees at over 11,000 company-operated stores, effective March.

As part of a broader turnaround effort, Niccol aims to restore Starbucks' coffeehouse culture by enhancing café environments, reducing customer wait times, and simplifying the menu.