Richmond Starbucks workers joined baristas at more than 40 stores across the U.S. on Nov. 13 in an open-ended strike over contract disputes, closing 65 unionized locations on the company’s annual Red Cup Day.

At the West Broad Street Starbucks, about 50 workers and supporters rallied and picketed, demanding higher pay, better staffing and an end to what they called unfair labor practices. 

“We gave them every opportunity and we stayed consistent in our demands for the contract,” said Forest Hill shop barista Beck Whittenton. “Unfortunately, they decided against coming to the table, making any offer toward the contract at all, and we did exactly what we said we were going to do.” 

As customers came and went, picketers spent about an hour chanting, sharing stories and urging Starbucks leadership to bargain in good faith with workers and union representatives. 

Five Richmond Starbucks stores became the first in Virginia to unionize in 2022, and city workers have remained active in national labor efforts. Local workers have also been affected by companywide changes, including the closure of non-union stores amid corporate restructuring. 

The rally came days after 92% of union baristas voted to authorize an unfair labor practice strike, according to Starbucks Workers United, and weeks after a practice picket at a Cary Street cafe. 

“Starbucks, you all have our number. You know where to find us,” shift supervisor Jonathan Mueller said. “Come back to the table. We’re here. We’re at work. Where are you?” 

The Richmond chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America and the regional Service Employees International Union as well as Virginia Education were among the groups supporting Starbucks workers, while Democratic Party of Virginia Chair Lamont Bagby made a brief appearance. 

Workers believe securing a contract that meets union baristas’ demands after six months without offers from the company could benefit not only the workers involved but also set a precedent for labor efforts in other businesses. 

“Starbucks makes good money,” SEIU 32BJ member Angela Arrington said. “Now it’s time for them to share the love because, without the people, it’s only a building.” 

Starbucks leadership and officials, meanwhile, have challenged the union’s framing of negotiations. They also highlighted the benefits already available to workers and disputed the impact of the strikes. 

“We’re disappointed that Workers United, [which] represents less than 4% of our partners, called for a strike instead of returning to the bargaining table,” Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson said in a statement. “We’ve been very clear — when the union is ready to come back, we’re ready to talk.”