Unionized Starbucks workers rally in Des Moines ahead of potential national strike

https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/10/28/unionized-starbucks-workers-rally-in-des-moines-ahead-of-potential-national-strike/

By: Robin Opsahl
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October 28, 2025 5:52 pm

While the government shutdown is not set to impact the strike being considered by Starbucks unionized workers, organizers said the recent government action has affected the ability of some Starbucks employees across the country to form their own unions.

A group of Starbucks baristas and supporters rallied outside the Des Moines Starbucks location near the Merle Hay Mall Tuesday, holding signs saying, “No contract? No coffee!” and “Just practicing for a just contract” as they led chants and cheered with passing cars.

The protest was one of many in Iowa and across the country organized by Starbucks Workers United between Oct. 24 and Nov. 2 as the union is voting on a strike authorization on unfair labor practices heading into the holiday season.

Speaking at the event, Jacob Scroggins, a Starbucks employee, said among the demands made by union workers were “livable wages, employer-paid health benefits and consistent schedules.” Scroggins said the demands being made ahead of the strike are all issues that pushed the Des Moines store employees to vote in support of unionization in August.

FULL story at link above.


Unionized Starbucks baristas and supporters rallied outside a Starbucks location near the Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines on Oct. 28, 2025 calling for the company to bargain with the union or face a strike. (Photo by Robin Opsahl/Iowa Capital Dispatch)