Starbucks workers who are currently on strike are urging customers to delete the company's mobile app. The call comes as part of their efforts to pressure Starbucks into agreeing to a first union contract.
The union, Starbucks Workers United, is demanding livable wages, stable and predictable hours, and an end to what they describe as "union busting" practices by the company. Despite these demands, Starbucks has yet to meet them, according to the union.
Since November last year, over 11,000 baristas at around 576 stores in the US have been on strike. While some stores reopened shortly after the strike began, others remain closed due to ongoing labor disputes.
The striking workers, who now represent about one-third of Starbucks' workforce, are hoping that by asking customers to delete the app, they can exert pressure on the company and make their demands more visible.
"We're not trying to be confrontational," said Christi Gomoljak, a barista at one of the stores that recently organized a union. "We just want what's fair for us - livable wages, stable hours, and an end to union busting."
The union has argued that by deleting the app, customers can demonstrate their support for the striking workers' cause. While some may not be directly affected by the strike, the union believes that by taking this action, they can contribute to a broader conversation about worker rights.
"This fight is about something way bigger than just coffee," said Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. "It's about whether we as working people get to live with dignity in this world that we make possible."
In response to the strike and its impact, Starbucks has downplayed its effects, claiming that fewer than 1% of stores were affected. However, the union disputes this figure and argues that the real-world consequences of the strike are being felt by striking workers and their families.
As negotiations between the union and Starbucks continue, it remains to be seen whether the company will eventually meet the union's demands. But for now, the striking workers remain resolute in their determination to create change.
The union, Starbucks Workers United, is demanding livable wages, stable and predictable hours, and an end to what they describe as "union busting" practices by the company. Despite these demands, Starbucks has yet to meet them, according to the union.
Since November last year, over 11,000 baristas at around 576 stores in the US have been on strike. While some stores reopened shortly after the strike began, others remain closed due to ongoing labor disputes.
The striking workers, who now represent about one-third of Starbucks' workforce, are hoping that by asking customers to delete the app, they can exert pressure on the company and make their demands more visible.
"We're not trying to be confrontational," said Christi Gomoljak, a barista at one of the stores that recently organized a union. "We just want what's fair for us - livable wages, stable hours, and an end to union busting."
The union has argued that by deleting the app, customers can demonstrate their support for the striking workers' cause. While some may not be directly affected by the strike, the union believes that by taking this action, they can contribute to a broader conversation about worker rights.
"This fight is about something way bigger than just coffee," said Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO. "It's about whether we as working people get to live with dignity in this world that we make possible."
In response to the strike and its impact, Starbucks has downplayed its effects, claiming that fewer than 1% of stores were affected. However, the union disputes this figure and argues that the real-world consequences of the strike are being felt by striking workers and their families.
As negotiations between the union and Starbucks continue, it remains to be seen whether the company will eventually meet the union's demands. But for now, the striking workers remain resolute in their determination to create change.
I'm all about supporting our brothers and sisters on the frontlines of labor rights 
They're fighting for something so much bigger than just a better cup of coffee 
It's time we recognize that the value of their hard work goes far beyond the bottom line 
By deleting Starbucks' app, customers can show their solidarity with the striking workers and put pressure on the company to listen to their demands 
It's not about being confrontational, it's about fighting for fairness and dignity 
... like, I get that they wanna be fair and have livable wages & stuff, but 11k+ baristas on strike is crazy! 
And what's with "union busting" practices? 
Does that even sound like a real thing? 
Should we really be deleting the Starbucks app though? 
Is it just gonna make their lives harder or is it actually gonna help them? 
? i mean, i get that they're fighting for better wages and hours, but is deleting the app really gonna make a difference? it just seems like a publicity stunt to me... and what about all the customers who aren't even on the union's side? are we supposed to punish our own favorite coffee spot just because some workers are unhappy? 
they're already working hard and they deserve better pay & stable hours 
I'm tempted to delete the app just to show my support for them 
but at the same time, I love their coffee too 
maybe we can find a middle ground where Starbucks meets some of their demands? 
it's not about being confrontational, but about treating workers with respect & fairness 