Currently, Starbucks workers in at least 25 cities, including Philadelphia, are striking. The strike started on Nov. 13, otherwise known as Red Cup Day when Starbucks gives out free, reusable cups. This is typically one of Starbucks’ busiest days of the year.

Not all locations are currently on strike; in Philadelphia specifically, the Starbucks at 34th and Walnut Street, Penn Medicine Perelman Center, 22nd and South Street, 16th and Walnut Street, and Chestnut Hill are closed.

Why Strike?

This strike was organized by Starbucks Workers United with the slogan “No contract, no coffee.” The purpose is to force Starbucks to finalize a contract agreement regarding labor. Starbucks’ Chief Partner Officer Sara Kelly said the union wants a 65% pay increase immediately and a 77% pay increase over the next three years, with additional pay increases for things such as weekends and days when Starbucks runs promotions.

According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, in response to the strike, Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson stated, “Any agreement needs to reflect the reality that Starbucks already offers the best job in retail including more than $30 an hour on average in pay and benefits for hourly partners.”

Jasmine Leli, a Starbucks barista of three years and strike captain, said that starting pay for baristas in most states is $15.25 per hour and “Our fight is about actually making Starbucks jobs the best jobs in retail.”

What do Mounties think of this?

Many Mounties go to Starbucks on a regular basis, some even going every week.

Layla Seward ’26 supports the strike, saying, “It’s good that they are taking action for something that’s wrong,” referring to the workers.

Abby McCabe ’26 agrees, stating it is “really cool” how the workers are taking initiative and trying to make a change.

Many Mounties aren’t aware the strike is taking place. When asked if she has heard of the Philly Starbucks workers strike, Cassidy Alpaugh ’26 said she had not, but is glad they are standing up for themselves. Since many people aren’t aware of this strike, some question how effective it will be.

Savannah Miller ’28 said she opposes the strike, saying, “I think that them striking is honestly unnecessary, and I don’t think it’s going to do anything.”

According to multiple news outlets, Starbucks workers went on strike several times last year as well, and no major changes occurred.

The strike’s length is indefinite and the union has vowed to not end the strike unless their conditions are met and the contract is signed.