Starbucks Forces Baristas to Work Near Wildfires in Los Angeles, Union Claims

Los Angeles: A union representing Starbucks workers is raising alarms. They say the coffee giant is putting profits before safety. Baristas in the LA area are being told to show up for work, even with wildfires raging nearby.

Starbucks Workers United shared videos online showing flames dangerously close to their stores. It’s pretty alarming to see. The union pointed out that some workers have even had to evacuate their homes due to the fires.

They posted on social media, saying, “Starbucks workers in LA are being forced to work in areas impacted by the recent wildfires – even where the air quality is unsafe.” It’s a tough situation, and the union is not happy about it.

Management claims the stores need to stay open because “the community depends on us.” But that’s hard to swallow when employees are facing unsafe conditions. The union insists that safety should come first, not profits.

There are over 100 Starbucks locations in LA, and at least one in Pacific Palisades was destroyed by the fires. The wildfires have been devastating, claiming lives and destroying homes.

Starbucks Workers United is calling for better safety measures and time off for affected employees. This situation is just one part of the ongoing tension between Starbucks and the union, which has been organizing workers across the country.

Last week, the union filed numerous complaints against Starbucks, alleging violations of labor laws. Starbucks has dismissed these claims, saying they distract from progress. It’s a complicated and heated situation, and it’s clear that the safety of workers is at stake.