Bethel Joins Starbucks Union Wave: What You Need to Know

Did Bethel, Connecticut just become ground zero for the national union-coffee wars? It certainly appears to be a battleground at minimum. According to a recent press release, baristas at the Starbucks in Bethel, CT, have filed to hold a union election, joining a wave of organizing across the country.

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They’re looking to become part of Starbucks Workers United — a growing union now representing over 11,000 workers at more than 580 stores in 45 states.

Their reasons? Workers say they’re fed up with low pay, unpredictable schedules, and a lack of respect from management. One barista, Autumn Degrosse, put it bluntly: “We deserve better than what this company gives us.”

This comes as union activity continues to surge nationwide. Since February 2024, over 180 stores have voted to unionize. Workers have staged strikes, rallies, and even peaceful civil disobedience actions in cities like Chicago, Brooklyn, and Pittsburgh. Many say Starbucks has failed to live up to its promises and accuse the company of union busting.

Union supporters say they’re not backing down — and Bethel is just the latest in a growing list of stores taking action.

Look, I’m not a Starbucks guy — this average dad bod runs on Dunkin. So I’m not entirely sure how much of a dog I’ve got in this fight. Then again, we’re not really supposed to be dogfighting anymore anyway (shoutout to Mike Vick for that unfortunate life lesson).

For once, I’m giving myself a break. Normally, I’d pick a side, go full throttle, and start shouting that I know exactly what’s right while insisting anyone who disagrees should be viciously beaten with a sock full of ball bearings. But not today. Today, I’m leaving it up to you to decide who’s the hero and who’s the hell spawn.

As for me? I’m just hoping everyone gets what they’re after — from mesmerizing macchiato misadventures to croissants baked in the spirit of cooperation.