Starbucks Baristas Strike Over New Dress Code, Saying Company “Lost Its Way”
Seattle, USA: More than 2,000 Starbucks workers across 120 stores walked out in protest of the coffee chain’s stricter new dress code. The updated policy limits baristas to wearing only solid neutral colors under their green aprons. Union organizers claim the policy stifles personal expression and was introduced without proper negotiation. Starbucks defends the rules as part of a standard brand image initiative. The strike signals a growing rift between management and unionized employees, who have also voiced concerns over staffing and scheduling. While Starbucks remains a global coffee giant, tensions over seemingly minor details like attire highlight deeper disputes about workers’ autonomy, corporate culture, and union negotiations.
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Key Entities
- • Starbucks Workers United: A labor union representing baristas at unionized Starbucks locations. They aim to secure better wages and working conditions.
- • Starbucks Corporation: An American multinational coffeehouse chain. Known for a casual but consistent brand image and standardized training.
- • Howard Schultz: Longtime leader of Starbucks, recently under scrutiny for alleged anti-union tactics.
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