NYC Politician Backs Starbucks Boycott Amid Nationwide Barista Strike
New York City Council Member Zohran Mamdani has publicly pledged solidarity with striking Starbucks baristas, calling for a widespread boycott of the coffee behemoth. On Friday, Mamdani urged supporters and the general public to abstain from purchasing Starbucks products until the ongoing national labor dispute culminates in a fair contract for its employees.
"Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike, fighting for a fair contract. While workers are on strike, I won’t be buying any Starbucks, and I’m asking you to join us. Together, we can send a powerful message: No contract, no coffee," Mamdani declared via a social media post, echoing the rallying cry of the workers.
"Red Cup Rebellion" Targets Busiest Day
Mamdani's appeal arrived as Starbucks Workers United initiated an open-ended industrial action dubbed the "Red Cup Rebellion." This strategic walkout intentionally coincided with Starbucks' annual Red Cup Day, historically one of the company's busiest events, where stores typically experience a surge in customer traffic drawn by the offer of free reusable holiday cups. This year, however, the festive day was underscored by widespread labor action, with employees in more than 25 U.S. cities participating in the strike.
Union Accusations vs. Company Rebuttals
Starbucks Workers United, which represents approximately 9,000 of the company’s baristas, asserts that Starbucks has demonstrably refused to engage in meaningful contract negotiations. The union has warned that the strike could intensify and expand if contract talks do not advance, citing over 1,000 unfair labor practice charges filed against the company with the National Labor Relations Board.
In contrast, Starbucks rejects these allegations, stating that the union’s demands are unreasonable. The company maintains that it already provides robust compensation and benefits, detailing an average hourly wage of $19, which reportedly exceeds $30 when benefits are factored in.
Pattern of Disruption and Closures
This marks the fourth strike organized by Starbucks Workers United since 2023 and the third since Brian Niccol took over as CEO in 2024. Last year's strike, also held during the popular Red Cup Day, reportedly forced around 60 stores to temporarily close their doors. Furthermore, Starbucks has faced considerable criticism for its recent closure of hundreds of stores nationwide, including 59 unionized locations, often giving employees only a few days' notice, a point highlighted by various media reports.
