Starbucks says Workers United voted to authorize strike

Starbucks (SBUX) Chief Partner Officer Sara Kelly said in a letter to employees: “Workers United has voted to authorize a strike. I want to share an update on where things stand and provide some context. Hopefully Workers United does not actually decide to move forward with strike action but if they do, I think it is important we remember that fewer than 4% of our green apron partners work in coffeehouses represented by Workers United and that over 10,000 company operated coffeehouses and nearly 7,000 licensed locations will remain open and serving customers…Our commitment to bargaining hasn’t changed. Workers United walked away from the table but if they are ready to come back, we’re ready to talk. We believe we can move quickly to a reasonable deal. We know pay and benefits are important. That’s why Starbucks offers the best overall wage and benefits package in retail, worth on average $30 per hour for hourly partners. Our benefits – including comprehensive healthcare, 100% tuition coverage for a four-year college degree, and up to 18 weeks paid family leave – are available even when working part time, beginning at an average of 20 hours per week.”