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Starbucks Baristas Walk Out on Red Cup Day to Secure Union Contract
15 Nov
Summary
- Starbucks baristas in multiple cities strike on Red Cup Day
- Walkout timed to chain's busiest holiday sales period
- Baristas represented by Starbucks Workers United union
On November 15, 2025, Starbucks baristas in multiple cities have staged a walkout on Red Cup Day, one of the coffee chain's most lucrative business days. The labor action, led by the Starbucks Workers United union, is part of the baristas' ongoing efforts to secure their first collective bargaining agreement with the company.
Red Cup Day traditionally kicks off the start of Starbucks's holiday sales season, making it a strategic time for the workers to leverage their bargaining power. The baristas, who have been negotiating with the company for months, are hoping the walkout will pressure Starbucks to meet their demands for better wages, benefits, and working conditions.
The strike comes as Starbucks faces growing labor unrest across its operations. The company has been accused of union-busting tactics and has seen a wave of unionization efforts at its stores in recent years. The baristas' actions on Red Cup Day represent the latest escalation in their fight for a fair contract with the coffee giant.
