Over a thousand coffee workers across the United States are on strike, Starbucks responds: the demands of the union "need to reflect reality"

On November 13th local time, more than 1,000 Starbucks union baristas in over 40 cities across the United States initiated an indefinite strike, demanding that Starbucks engage in collective bargaining negotiations on wages and other benefits. The Starbucks Workers United stated that the strike would begin at 65 stores and is prepared to make it the largest and longest strike in Starbucks history. The strike coincides with Starbucks' "Red Cup Day," a busy promotional day for the company. A Starbucks spokesperson expressed disappointment, stating that only about 4% of unionized employees voted to authorize the strike, rather than returning to the negotiating table. "When they are ready to come back, we are ready to talk." The spokesperson also mentioned that Starbucks offers retail industry-leading positions, including an average hourly wage plus benefits exceeding $30, and that "any agreement needs to reflect reality."