Starbucks stores across 41 U.S. cities were hit by fresh walkouts on Thursday, Nov. 13, as unionised baristas launched another wave of the “Red Cup Rebellion” — a coordinated strike timed with the company’s annual Red Cup Day, one of its busiest promotional events. More than 1,000 workers joined the open-ended strike, which began after contract negotiations reached a standstill.
Why the strike is happening
Starbucks Workers United, the union representing baristas at more than 550 stores, says workers have waited nearly a year for the company to present proposals to complete their union contracts. The union’s demands centre on:
• Fair wages
• Better, stable scheduling
• Resolution of alleged unfair labour practices
Union leaders say Starbucks has stalled negotiations, accusing the company of union-busting and delaying tactics. “Workers are tired,” a union spokesperson said, adding that the strike would continue until Starbucks presents what the union deems a fair contract.
Starbucks, meanwhile, disputes the union’s claims. Spokesperson Jaci Anderson said the company already offers “the best job in retail” and criticised the strike, noting that Workers United represents “around 4%” of Starbucks employees. Starbucks also said the “overwhelming majority” of stores remain open despite the walkouts.
Why the strike is timed with Red Cup Day
Red Cup Day is one of Starbucks’ highest-volume days of the year, when customers flock to stores to receive collectible reusable holiday cups. Workers say striking on this day maximises visibility, pressure, and bargaining power.
This year’s strike marks the latest chapter in the growing standoff between Starbucks and its unionised workforce — a movement that began in Buffalo in 2021 and has expanded to hundreds of stores nationwide.
Which cities have been impacted?
Strikes are underway in Starbucks stores across 41 cities, including:
Anaheim, Long Beach, San Diego, Santa Clarita, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Seal Beach, Soquel, Colorado Springs, Lafayette, Des Plaines, Evanston, Geneva, Alpharetta, Roswell, Chanhassen, Minneapolis, Saint Louis, Brooklyn, New York City, Columbus, Lewis Center, Reynoldsburg, Upper Arlington, Worthington, Beaverton, Damascus, Eugene, Gresham, Portland, Dickson City, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Dallas, Denton, Farmers Branch, Richmond, Mechanicsville, Redmond and Seattle.
The union has not released specific store addresses but has shared a rally map on nocontractnocoffee.org.
