2024-09-25 09:13:49 :
Starbucks’ recently appointed CEO Brian Niccol said he “deeply respects” employees’ right to join a union amid the coffee chain’s ongoing union talks. In a letter released on Tuesday, September 24, Nicol said he was committed to “constructively engaging” with union representatives, Reuters reported.
The announcement comes as Starbucks continues contract negotiations with unionized workers this week. The upcoming meeting will reportedly be the first under Nicol’s leadership and comes after unexpected changes to the company’s top management positions last month.
Nicol’s letter was prompted by letters from 298 baristas who were union negotiators. His response reaffirmed the company’s commitment to creating a positive work environment at its U.S. stores, a goal he previously outlined in an open letter earlier this month, Reuters reported.
“I am committed to ensuring that we engage constructively and in good faith with unions and the partners they represent should our partners choose representation,” Nicoll wrote, according to Reuters. He emphasized the company’s willingness to engage with unionized employees cooperate. .
Negotiations between Starbucks and the union began in April to establish a framework for collective bargaining in the United States. According to Reuters, the union delegation represents more than 10,500 partners in more than 490 stores.
The move follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June that overturned a lower court order ordering Starbucks to rehire seven Memphis employees. The workers were fired amid efforts to form a union, the report said, highlighting ongoing tensions around labor organizing within the company.
Reuters reported that as the discussion continues, all eyes will be on how Nicol’s leadership style affects the relationship between Starbucks management and its unionized employees.
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