Newberry Starbucks workers file for union elections, in colossal day of filings
Local coffee shop employees join in nationwide bargaining push
NEWBERRY, S.C. – Local coffee shop workers at the Main Street & Wilson Road Starbucks location filed for a union election with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on Tuesday, echoing a similar move by 17 other Starbucks branches across the nation. This robust movement of union filings erupted just days post the closure of second round dialogues between Starbucks and its workers, where both parties reportedly inched closer to creating a foundational outline for future store contracts.
Seeking Respect, Equality and Better Wages
The Newberry Starbucks employees, through their election petitions, aim to join a movement inclusive of over 10,500 baristas. They seek crucial changes, including respect, living wages, racial and gender equity, and fair scheduling of working hours.
A Movement, Together
“We run things collectively here, fighting together for a company that should be doing better for its employees. We are looking forward to joining the bargaining process and negotiating a contract that will be beneficial not only for workers in Newberry but for all employees across the country,” shared Chesney Bolton, a shift lead at Starbucks of three years.
A Unified Letter to Starbucks
Starbucks workers from the 18 outlets have co-authored a letter addressed to CEO Laxman Narasimhan, stating their intention to organize. They have categorically insisted on improved wages, consistent scheduling, improvements in benefits, and cultivating a safe and dignified workplace.
Union Elections Filed Across the Country
Reportedly, employees from Starbucks locations peppered across the country, including in cities such as Dallas, Seattle, Miami, Jackson, and multiple Starbucks outlets in New York City, have applied for their respective union elections.
Capping off an historic effort, which kick-started in 2021, over 440 Starbucks outlets and their workforce — have successfully conducted union elections with the NLRB. This initiative has taken place across 43 states and the District of Columbia. At its core, the campaign banks heavily on peer-to-peer organization.
Conclusion
The announcement of this massively widespread filing comes in the wake of previous successful attempts from workers who voted to join Starbucks Workers United in various states. These workers have managed to make significant advancements in negotiations, including better-working conditions and enhanced education benefits for the organized workers.
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
