A historic labor battle unfolded at Starbucks as a rolling strike launched by baristas expanded to include approximately 300 stores across the U.S., according to ABC News and Los Angeles Times. This ongoing strike, initiated during the busy holiday season, aims to pressure the coffee giant into offering a more favorable wage proposal and to address outstanding unfair labor practice allegations made against the company.

The union representing roughly 10,000 workers, Starbucks Workers United, announced that the labor unrest involved baristas from major cities including Boston, Philadelphia, Portland, and Tucson, who joined those in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle. "These strikes are an initial show of strength, and we’re just getting started," said Lauren Hollingsworth, a barista from Ashland, Oregon. The strike, which marked the largest in Starbucks’ history, coincided with one of the company’s busiest traffic periods.

Starbucks management responded by downplaying the impact of the strikes, asserting that “97-99%” of stores would continue to operate despite the disruptions. However, reports indicated that over 170 locations had closed or failed to open as scheduled during the strike, highlighting significant operational challenges during this peak period.

The ongoing negotiations have faced setbacks, with recent conversations breaking off due to stark disagreements over economic proposals, including wage increases. Starbucks maintained that the union's demands were unsustainable, while workers challenged management's representation of negotiations, emphasizing the need for tangible progress.

As labor experts pointed out, the culmination of employee unrest during this strike could pave the way for renewed negotiations, or it might result in escalated action if an agreement remains unattainable. “If Starbucks doesn’t meaningfully negotiate on economic proposals, you’ll see a rise in militancy,” warned Johnnie Kallas, a labor relations professor, explaining that workers might face a crucial decision in the upcoming weeks.

Historically, the union movement at Starbucks has gained traction since its formation in 2021. Starbucks Workers United reported that over 540 stores are currently unionized, reflecting a significant increase in worker organization efforts. “You always want your movement to grow. The bigger we are, the stronger we are,” said Michelle Eisen, a barista involved in union negotiations.

As the strikes continue and workers weigh their options during the holiday break, the relationship between Starbucks management and the union remains uncertain. Experts suggest that shifting public opinion could force a reevaluation of strategies on both sides, emphasizing the dynamics of the ongoing labor dispute.

For further details on this evolving situation, see the coverage from ABC News and Los Angeles Times.