Over 1,000 Starbucks baristas from more than 75 locations across the U.S. have launched a major strike in protest of the company’s newly enforced dress code policy.
The nationwide walkout reflects growing tensions between the coffee chain and its unionized workforce, with many employees arguing the change is unnecessary and demoralizing.
As of Monday, baristas in both company-owned and licensed Starbucks stores in the U.S. and Canada are required to wear solid black tops and bottoms restricted to khaki, black, or blue denim under their iconic green aprons.
This marks a stark departure from the previously relaxed dress code, which allowed for dark-colored and patterned shirts, giving baristas more freedom of expression.
Starbucks claims the change is intended to maintain visual consistency and emphasize its signature green apron, aiming to create a cozier, more familiar experience for customers. But workers aren’t buying it.
“Starbucks has lost sight of what truly matters,” said Paige Summers, a shift supervisor in Hanover, Maryland. “Customers aren’t concerned about whether we’re wearing black or burgundy… they’re frustrated when they wait 30 minutes for a coffee because the company isn’t addressing staffing and service issues.”
Adding fuel to the fire, employees pointed out the hypocrisy of the company selling now-banned branded apparel on its internal merchandise site. Although Starbucks promised each employee two complimentary black T-shirts, many say it’s not enough to justify the policy change.
The strike, organized by Starbucks Workers United… the union representing employees at around 570 of the company’s U.S. locations… is also highlighting deeper labor concerns.
The union insists the dress code should have been a point of negotiation at the bargaining table. This week, the group filed a formal complaint with the National Labor Relations Board, accusing Starbucks of sidestepping negotiations over the new policy.
Despite the strike, Starbucks insists the disruption has been minimal. “Thousands of our partners showed up to work this week, continuing to serve their communities with pride,” the company said in a statement. “Rather than staging walkouts, we urge the union to return to the table and help us finalize a fair and practical contract.”
Starbucks Workers United has been organizing U.S. locations since 2021. Although both sides agreed in February 2024 to resume negotiations, a finalized contract remains elusive.
