How Starbucks tried to quash union organizing at its Colorado stores
During a meeting on Feb. 14, 2022, a Starbucks manager called Michaela Sellaro aside at the coffee shop on East Colfax Ave. in Denver. Previously, Sellaro and her fellow baristas had informed the company’s CEO about their intention to form a union.
The store and district managers met with Sellaro at a table by the windows in the early afternoon. They conveyed the message that Starbucks did not support the idea of a union representing its partners. They warned Sellaro that relationships with leadership might deteriorate, promotions could be halted, and benefits could change if employees chose to organize.
A recording reviewed by JS captured the district manager, Kaylin Driscoll, stating Starbucks’ stance on unions. The store manager, Ariel Rodriguez, expressed a lack of interest in working in a store that needed a union for communication.
The East Colfax store, which has since closed, was one of 18 Starbucks cafes in Colorado to unionize since 2022. This movement, which started with a store in Buffalo, New York, has expanded to 640 locations nationwide.
Despite Starbucks’ efforts to prevent unionization, less than 4% of Starbucks workers are employed in unionized stores. The National Labor Relations Board has found the company engaged in illegal practices to deter union activities.
Starbucks Workers United, the national union representing Starbucks workers, highlighted over 500 labor law violations by Starbucks. The union called for a fair contract to address issues like staffing, pay, and labor practices.
Workers in Colorado’s first unionized cafe faced challenges from Starbucks in their organizing efforts. Len Harris, a shift supervisor, initiated union efforts in Superior after learning about unionization in Buffalo. Despite facing pressure and intimidation from management, the employees successfully formed a union.
Starbucks’ tactics to discourage union activities have been observed in various locations, including Denver. Emily Alice Dinaro, who organized a Starbucks on 16th Street mall, reported increased enforcement of rules and firings of union supporters.
Starbucks has faced criticism for its anti-union practices, with federal judges ruling against the company for violating labor laws. The company’s actions have led to closures of stores and employee terminations.
Despite these challenges, Starbucks workers across the country continue to organize for fair contracts. In Colorado, 17 stores have unionized, with workers demanding better wages and benefits.
Efforts to negotiate a contract with Starbucks have faced setbacks, leading workers to authorize strikes for fair labor practices. The union has garnered support from senators and allies in demanding fair treatment for Starbucks employees.
As the strike continues, Starbucks workers remain committed to fighting for their rights and a fair contract. The union’s push for better conditions reflects a broader trend of labor activism in the United States.
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