Maryland Starbucks Unionizes Days Before A Supreme Court Case On Labor Rights

 

Starbucks Workers in Maryland Vote to Unionize

In a pivotal decision for labor rights, baristas at the Shipley’s Grant Starbucks location in Maryland overwhelmingly voted to form a union this week. The ballot passed 21–2 on Thursday, reflecting the growing unionization efforts among Starbucks employees nationwide.

Noah Smith, a shift supervisor, cited issues like decreasing work hours and inspiration from organized stores as motivations. Smith initiated the petition with two others in March, which was filed with the NLRB.

Data shows around 9,270 Starbucks workers are currently unionized, approximately 3% of the total workforce. Shipley’s Grant becomes the ninth Starbucks store in Maryland to organize, with more anticipated soon.

Challenges Faced by Shipley’s Grant Employees

Corporate decisions early this year reduced part-time employees’ schedules. While full-timers saw small changes, others risked losing healthcare and tuition if hours dropped under 20–22 weekly.

With 27 staff, ensuring coverage to maintain benefits was difficult. Workers often had to pick up shifts elsewhere, highlighting issues common across Starbucks.

Goals of Unionizing

Chief aims were establishing dialogue with corporate leads and setting clear minimum hour and expectation guidelines for a more inclusive environment. Another focus was addressing inclusiveness, like a directive removing a progress flag, indicating a need for more support.

Starbucks’ Response

Since going public, Starbucks enforced a policy against union attire on shifts. The company did not comment on developments. Elsewhere, NLRB rulings found Starbucks fired pro-union employees at some stores.

Collective Bargaining and the Future

Negotiations were announced to start this month. Once certified, Shipley’s Grant will join nationwide discussions impacting organized Starbucks workers. Smith hopes to ensure future safety, inclusion, and openness for employees.

The outcomes of this case and continuing union drives may significantly impact Starbucks and its workforce going forward.