Starbucks workers ask to unionize

Starbucks workers in Buffalo, New York are on the fence about unionizing. In order to make a decision three Starbucks outlet in Buffalo petitioned to sanction a vote on the same. In an unprecedented move, contrary to the reactions of most employers in history, Starbucks requested the National Labor Relations Board (NLBR) to ascertain voting rights to all 450 of their partners. The same was mentioned in a memo circulated among the employees. 

Starbuck's regional vice president Allyson Peck said that they believe ensuring affordable voting rights to all their partners. 

Starbucks is well known for calling their employees "partners" and maintaining a respectful chain of command which is rare in the fast food industry. The employees said that the working conditions worsened during the pandemic and they would like a more equitable partnership. Peck in her letter also mentioned that the organization is there to help the employees who have a right to communicate with them directly, if they do not want to give up that right then they should vote NO on unionizing. Starbucks Workers United as a response to this letter claimed that the coffee giant is just trying to stall the vote using any legal tactics they can get their hands on. 

NLBR states that even one store is considered an appropriate unit therefore the employees association aims to organize at least one store and eventually gather more outlets. 

Source: CNBC