Starbucks will restart contract negotiations with the union representing its baristas in January.
The coffee giant has seen the second year of unionization anniversary at its US cafes this Saturday, December 9.
Currently, over 360 locations, almost four percent of its total US company-owned footprint, have voted in favor of unionization.
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Despite this, no locations have reached a contractual agreement with the company.
The unionized employees have advocated for improved pay and addressing issues of understaffing in cafes, among other demands.
According to labor laws, there is no obligation for the employer and union to reach a collective bargaining agreement.
However, both parties are expected to negotiate in good faith.
Workers who lose confidence in the union after a year can petition for decertification, setting a time limit on negotiations.
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At least 19 locations have filed petitions for decertification, with seven dismissals based on allegations that Starbucks violated federal labor laws.
Negotiations between Starbucks and the union, known as Starbucks Workers United, began over a year ago but have been contentious.
Both sides have accused each other of failing to negotiate in good faith.
“The current impasse should not be acceptable to either of us”
Starbucks has insisted on face-to-face negotiations, refusing virtual representation via Zoom, which the union has criticized as a stalling tactic.
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In a letter addressed to Workers United International President Lynne Fox, Starbucks’ Chief Partner Officer, Sara Kelly, said: “We collectively agree, the current impasse should not be acceptable to either of us.
“It has not helped Starbucks, Workers United or, most importantly, our partners. In this spirit, we are asking for your support and agreement to restart bargaining.”
Kelly outlined various conditions for the talks, including no audio or video recordings or feeds.
Pending agreement from Workers United, Starbucks aims to resume negotiations in January, involving a representative selection of stores.
The union is currently reviewing the letter and plans to respond.
