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More than 1,200 Starbucks employees across approximately 100 locations have gone on strike to protest a recently implemented dress code policy that union organizers say is worsening already strained working conditions.Â
The new policy, requiring baristas to wear solid black tops with black, khaki, or denim bottoms, went into effect on May 12 without union negotiation. Starbucks provided two free black shirts to employees, but union members report delays in distribution, leaving some workers without the required attire, according to USA Today.
The union representing the workers, Starbucks Workers United, claims the new rule has caused confusion and disruptions, with some employees sent home for not complying with the dress code — resulting in lost hours and further exacerbating existing understaffing problems.Â
According to union representatives, the company’s unilateral decision to enforce the policy without bargaining violates fair labor practices and reflects a broader failure to address more urgent workplace issues such as understaffing, low morale, and wages.
The dress code dispute has added to growing tension between Starbucks and unionized workers, halting contract negotiations aimed at resolving long-standing concerns about staffing and compensation.Â
Workers argue the company is prioritizing image over functionality, implementing superficial changes while stores struggle to keep up with customer demand and operational pressure.
In response, Starbucks maintains that the vast majority of its more than 10,000 stores remain unaffected and continue to operate normally. The company claims the strike activity represents a small minority of employees and says it remains committed to offering competitive pay and benefits.
However, the union has filed updated unfair labor practice charges, accusing Starbucks of failing to bargain in good faith. Worker complaints also include the inability to afford new wardrobe items, especially after investing in previous company-approved apparel that no longer meets the updated standards.
While Starbucks promotes the new dress code as a way to unify store appearance and reinforce its brand identity, striking employees contend that it diverts attention from the real issues affecting daily operations. With negotiations stalled and tensions escalating, the conflict highlights ongoing challenges in the company’s relationship with its growing unionized workforce.
