Starbucks and its union, representing more than 10,000 baristas, have agreed to withdraw their legal disputes, signaling a step forward in their stalled contract negotiations. This development follows a recent agreement to bring in a mediator to help bridge the gap between both sides.
Negotiations, which began last April, hit a roadblock in December when talks were paused. The union claimed Starbucks had not presented a comprehensive contract proposal. With the lawsuits now set aside, both parties are working toward an agreement on single-store contracts.
“When Starbucks withdrew its lawsuit, the union withdrew its counter lawsuit. We’re proud to support Starbucks baristas in their fight for a fair contract,” the union stated.
Tensions escalated late last year when workers staged a five-day strike just before Christmas, temporarily shutting down locations in major cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle. With the legal battles behind them, the focus now shifts to securing a long-awaited labor deal.
