Starbucks Red Cup Day Disrupted: In a move that disrupted hundreds of Starbucks (SBUX.O) stores during the much-anticipated Red Cup Day, workers, represented by Workers United, walked off their jobs, demanding enhanced staffing and improved schedules. Starbucks reported that while some partners were on strike, the majority of its stores in the United States remained open during the key promotional event.
The Red Cup Day, known for attracting increased store traffic, saw visits to U.S. Starbucks stores surge by 94% over the daily average last year, according to Placer.ai data. Workers United, representing over 9,000 Starbucks employees at approximately 360 U.S. stores, labeled the event as one of the most challenging days due to understaffing.
Amidst picketers outside Starbucks’ Astor Place outlet at New York University, where workers chanted “no contract, no coffee,” the coffee chain continued serving customers, highlighting the ongoing clash between worker demands and the operational needs of Starbucks.
Mary Boca, a 22-year-old barista at Astor Place, emphasized the need for higher pay and increased staff. She disclosed management’s acknowledgment of the necessity to hire 12 people, particularly crucial during peak periods.
Also Read: Starbucks Faces Employee Uprising: Red Cup Day Walkout Sparks Brewing Turmoil
Boca further highlighted the absence of a tipping option at her Starbucks location, translating to a loss of an extra $100 in each paycheck, a concern shared by many employees. Edwin Palma Solis, a 24-year-old worker at Astor Place, pointed out how this policy might discourage potential hires from joining the location.
Starbucks, boasting nearly 10,000 U.S. company-owned locations, contends that less than 3% of these stores are represented by a union. Last year, a similar strike occurred at over 100 U.S. company-owned Starbucks locations on Red Cup day.
Despite Starbucks’ recent announcement of a minimum 3% hourly pay increase for U.S. retail workers from 2024, criticism from employees persists. The move is deemed “tone deaf” in light of Starbucks’ 11% surge in fourth-quarter revenue and recent wage hikes in other sectors, adding fuel to the ongoing labor-related challenges faced by the coffee giant.
Our Reader’s Queries
Is Red cup day today?
Mark your calendars for Thursday, Nov. 16 as it’s the day we celebrate Red Cup Day! This year, we’re excited to bring you a day filled with fun and festivities. So, get ready to join us in celebrating this special occasion. Don’t forget to spread the word and invite your friends and family to join in on the fun!
Do Starbucks red cups run out?
To snag a free Red Cup from Starbucks, it’s best to act fast as they’re given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early and be ready to wait in line to increase your chances of getting one. These cups are reusable, so you can enjoy your holiday beverages in style all season long. Don’t miss out on this festive opportunity!
What is the protest on Red cup Day?
On “Red Cup Day,” an event where Starbucks offers reusable cups to customers who order holiday drinks, thousands of unionized employees went on strike. The union leading the protest organized the walkout.
Is Red cup Day only one day?
Every year in November, Starbucks celebrates Red Cup Day by giving away free cups for their seasonal drinks. This one-day event is highly anticipated by coffee lovers everywhere. It’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in your favorite holiday flavors and get into the festive spirit. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!