Starbucks has been thrust into a nationwide standoff as baristas launch an open-ended strike, and New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is urging customers to stay away from the chain until a contract dispute is resolved. But why is this the case?
Starbucks baristas began an open-ended strike in November amid stalled contract negotiations, marking a significant moment for the company's labour relations. Around 1,000 workers across 65 stores were expected to strike, according to the union. The work stoppage could expand to more than 500 stores if negotiations do not resume, the union said in a statement.
