Starbucks, the global coffee chain, has proposed to restart union talks with the aim of reaching contract agreements by 2024. This marks a significant shift in the company's stance, following two years of resistance against unionization. The decision comes in the wake of at least 370 company-owned Starbucks stores voting in favor of unionization, with workers advocating for higher pay, consistent schedules, and increased involvement in matters such as store safety.
Starbucks' Chief Partner Officer, Sara Kelly, has expressed a commitment to bargaining with unionized workers. Kelly has reached out to Workers United President Lynne Fox, indicating a willingness to restart negotiations and discussing the ground rules for the meetings. The company is reportedly open to ideas and rules proposed by the union.
However, the negotiation process has not been without its challenges. One major roadblock has been the disagreement over whether the bargaining should be conducted in-person or via a hybrid model. The two sides have also disagreed on various other issues, including the participation of workers via videoconference.
Despite these challenges, Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan has emphasized the importance of worker retention and improving the company's partner culture. On the other hand, Workers United aims to address schedule flexibility, health and safety, and access to benefits through union contracts.
The proposal to restart union talks comes at a time when holiday visits to Starbucks appear to be down compared to the previous year. The outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the company's relationship with its workers and its overall business performance.
