Starbucks workers go on strike at 65 unionized US stores

More than 1,000 unionized Starbucks workers are striking at 65 U.S. stores Thursday, aiming to disrupt Red Cup Day, when customers get free reusable cups with holiday drinks. Organized by Starbucks Workers United, the open-ended walkout spans 45 cities and could expand without a contract. Baristas cite stalled negotiations, seeking higher pay, steadier hours, and resolution of unfair labor practice claims. Starbucks says most locations remain open, touts average compensation worth $30 an hour and robust benefits, and insists the union left talks. The action tests visibility as sales recently inched up 1%.