The nationwide strike by unionized Starbucks workers has entered its fourth day, raising concerns that it could become the largest and longest labor action in the company's history, according to the Workers United union.

The strike began on Thursday, coinciding with "Red Cup Day," typically one of the busiest days for Starbucks stores.

As a result, several locations across the United States were forced to close temporarily, including a key outlet in Seattle.

The store located on Elliott Avenue in Seattle's Interbay neighborhood is among those affected by the walkout, as most unionized employees there are participating in the strike.

 Customers encountered signs stating "Closed." Store supervisor Brina Nendel stated that workers are prepared to continue striking for several days or even weeks if necessary, adding that how long this lasts depends largely on company management.

Wages and Working Conditions at Issue

The labor stoppage centers around demands related to wages, work hours and scheduling, as well as other workplace conditions. Nendel pointed out that Seattle's minimum wage stands at $20.76 an hour-a figure she says leaves Starbucks workers struggling compared to staff at smaller coffee shops who start at about $25 per hour.

The union is also calling for more consistent scheduling and improved staffing levels.

Workers have accused Starbucks management of neglecting employee interests since Laxman Narasimhan was replaced by new CEO Brian Niccol in September 2024-reversing previous progress made under Narasimhan’s leadership.

So far, Starbucks has only offered a wage increase of 1.5%, which striking employees argue falls short of providing a livable income in Seattle.

Sara Kelly, Starbucks’ chief partner officer, responded by saying that workers had left the bargaining table but emphasized that the company remains willing to return to negotiations at any time.

She added that Workers United represents less than four percent of Starbucks employees nationwide. The company operates more than 10,000 stores across the U.S., with approximately 550 currently unionized.

This ongoing strike underscores persistent tensions between management and staff over pay and benefits rights.

The situation presents a significant challenge for Starbucks as it attempts to balance commercial interests with employee demands for fair compensation and better working conditions.