**Starbucks Employees Protest New Dress Code with Walkouts**
Hundreds of Starbucks employees have staged walkouts since Sunday in response to the company’s newly implemented dress code, according to the union representing baristas. The protests have taken place at over 50 locations across the United States, as Starbucks Workers United indicates that more strikes may follow in the coming days. The union represents baristas at approximately 570 of Starbucks’ more than 10,000 company-operated stores in the U.S.
Starbucks has stated that the walkouts have not significantly impacted national store operations, with most locations remaining open and serving customers as usual. The coffee chain introduced a new dress code on Monday, mandating that baristas wear solid black tops, a shift from the previous policy that allowed for a variety of colors. Additionally, there are new regulations regarding the types of bottoms baristas can wear.
In response to the dress code changes, Workers United has filed a complaint with the U.S. National Labor Relations Board, claiming that Starbucks’ actions during contract negotiations violate labor laws and demonstrate a lack of fair negotiation practices. The complaint also asserts that the new dress code “materially differed” from a tentative agreement reached during discussions.
Starbucks has committed to continuing negotiations and addressing any discrepancies between agreed terms and store implementations “lawfully and fairly.” Baristas, however, argue that the new dress code will not enhance operations or ease their workload. Union delegate Michelle Eisen expressed concerns that the policy places an additional financial burden on baristas, many of whom are already facing economic challenges.
While Starbucks has offered to provide two branded shirts at no cost, they cannot guarantee delivery by the May 12 deadline when the new dress code takes effect. In a statement, Starbucks emphasized that “thousands” of employees reported to work ready to serve customers, highlighting that the primary update to the dress code is simply to wear a black shirt, either personal or provided by the company.
Starbucks noted that Workers United represents less than 5% of its workforce and accused the union of attempting to create disruption in select stores. The company reiterated its commitment to providing competitive wages and benefits, averaging over $30 per hour for hourly partners, and called on the union to return to negotiations to finalize a reasonable contract.
In late April, around 500 baristas from unionized U.S. stores voted to reject Starbucks’ latest contract proposal, primarily due to pay concerns. At that time, Starbucks claimed the union presented an “incomplete framework” for voting, which they argued undermined collective progress. The two parties have been engaged in negotiations for the past year in hopes of reaching a satisfactory agreement.
**FAQ**
**What are the main concerns of Starbucks employees regarding the new dress code?**
Starbucks employees are concerned that the new dress code imposes financial burdens on them to purchase new clothing and does not contribute to improved operations or job satisfaction.
