Starbucks union authorizes strike ahead of final bargaining

The union representing Starbucks Corp. baristas has voted to authorize a strike as negotiations over contract terms enter their final stages.

Starbucks union authorizes strike ahead of final bargaining

Starbucks Workers United announced that 98% of union members voted in favor of a strike, which could take place "if necessary." However, no decision has been made regarding whether a strike will occur. The union represents workers at over 500 of Starbucks' more than 10,000 company-operated stores across the U.S. Earlier this year, the labor group and Starbucks agreed to resume bargaining with the goal of establishing a contract framework. In a statement, Starbucks Workers United said the company has yet to present a comprehensive economic package for discussion and that hundreds of charges related to unfair labor practices remain unresolved.

Bargaining representatives are meeting with Starbucks for their final scheduled negotiating session of the year on Tuesday

“It’s time to finalize a solid framework that includes meaningful investments in baristas and to resolve unfair labor practice charges,” said Silvia Baldwin, a barista from Philadelphia and bargaining delegate. Starbucks did not immediately respond to a request for comment.