In a major case in New York City, Starbucks has been found guilty of union-busting. In an 88-page ruling, a judge has found that Starbucks maintained multiple policies which interfered with workers’ right to communicate about the union and about working conditions; terminated three workers in retaliation for union activity; and repeatedly discriminated against union supporters.
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) judge in the case has ordered Starbucks to reinstate the three fired baristas and give them back pay for lost wages. Additionally, the company must pledge to end discriminatory treatment towards workers that support the union.
Starbucks has said that it plans to appeal the ruling.
Starbucks faces a similar trial next month in Grand Rapids. The company will appear before the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on January 7 over charges that it illegally fired union barista Cole Dorsey for organizing a union at the Starbucks restaurant in East Grand Rapids.
