New Dress Code for Baristas Sparks Union Discontent
Starbucks has introduced a new dress code for its employees, effective May 12, that is causing unrest among its union workers. The updated uniform requires baristas to wear a solid black shirt—either a crewneck, collared, or button-up shirt—and bottoms in khaki, black, or blue denim. Previously, employees had more flexibility with their attire, being allowed to wear tops of any color and bottoms in several shades, including black, gray, navy, and khaki.
Company’s Statement on the Dress Code Change
Starbucks explained that the new dress code aims to create a “more consistent coffeehouse experience” and provide clearer guidance to employees. This, according to the company, will allow baristas to focus more on their work of “crafting great beverages and fostering connections with customers.” The company is also offering employees two company-branded shirts as part of the new uniform requirements.
Union’s Opposition and Focus on Other Issues
However, Starbucks Workers United, the union representing many baristas, strongly opposes the dress code change. They argue that the company is prioritizing a limiting dress code over more pressing issues such as fair wages, guaranteed hours, and staffing. Jasmine Leli, a barista and union bargaining delegate, criticized Starbucks for “forcing baristas to pay for new clothes when we’re struggling as it is on Starbucks wages.” The union has demanded that the new dress code not be implemented at union-represented stores until bargaining over contracts is concluded.
Starbucks Responds to Union Concerns
In response, a Starbucks spokesperson pointed out that the company has held over nine bargaining sessions and three mediation sessions since last year, reaching agreements on various topics. The company reiterated its commitment to good faith bargaining and emphasized that it aims to create frameworks for single store contracts for unionized partners.
Impact on Starbucks’ Financial Performance
Amid these tensions, Starbucks also reported a 4% decline in U.S. comparable store sales for the first quarter of 2025, reflecting some of the challenges the company is facing. The company’s decision to streamline its menu by eliminating 13 drinks, including the Iced Matcha Lemonade and White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino, has also drawn attention. In exchange, Starbucks introduced three new drinks: Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha, Iced Cherry Chai, and Iced Lavender Oatmilk Latte, alongside new food offerings such as Jalapeno Chicken Pockets and Spicy Falafel Pockets at select locations.