Starbucks Workers United, the union representing thousands of Starbucks employees in the US, is organizing a walkout on one of the coffee chain’s busiest days, coinciding with the ‘Red Cup’ day, a promotional event where holiday-themed cups are distributed.

The walkout, scheduled for November 16, is part of an ongoing dispute between Starbucks and the union, which began organizing workers in 2021.

Approximately 200 stores are expected to be affected, with some locations experiencing only a few hours of disruption, while others may be closed for most of the day.

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The union alleges that Starbucks has failed to engage in fair contract negotiations and is also protesting against inadequate staffing, particularly on promotional days.

Caitlin Power, a barista in Gardner, Massachusetts, stated, “We are striking this Red Cup Day in response to understaffing, especially during new promotional days.

This leaves us overwhelmed, and customers with long wait times. We are ready to see Starbucks at the bargaining table in good faith so we can address these issues.”

Starbucks, operating over 10,000 stores in the US, downplayed the expected disruption and expressed hope that the union would prioritize shared success and engage in meaningful contract negotiations.

Since 2021, around 360 Starbucks locations out of more than 10,000 have voted to join the union, a move strongly resisted by Starbucks.

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The company has faced accusations of violating labor laws, leading to administrative law judges’ findings.

Starbucks has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has appealed the decisions.

The union campaign at Starbucks has garnered attention and is considered influential in inspiring workers at other companies.