EVERETT, Wash. — An Everett Starbucks has become the latest location to begin the unionization process after employees filed a petition to unionize with the National Labor Relations Board.
“We are joining the movement to unionize for a bevy of reasons, first and foremost of those is the desire for a meaningful voice in our workplace," said Shift Supervisor Jacob Fullerton.
Employees at the store on 37th Street and Broadway join two Seattle Starbucks locations in the unionization effort. The first-ever Starbucks union was formed at a Buffalo, New York location in December of 2021. Many other locations across the nation have also filed to hold union elections.
In a letter to Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson, employees took issue with the franchise's COVID-19 response and advocated for a union to "meet on a level playing field with our leadership," and have a say in the company culture and values.
"Listen to those who are struggling to be heard. Empower those who do not share your privilege. And recognize us as actual Partners in this business," the letter reads.