Starbucks workers in Surrey and Langley stores vote in favour of strike

Baristas from two Fraser Valley Starbucks have voted in favour of strike action over wages and hours of work.

“The baristas joined the union looking for respect from their employer, and quite frankly they are tired of the company dragging its feet and continuing to disrespect them by not reaching a fair deal,” said Al Bieksa, president of the Local 2009.

The Seattle-based coffee giant had tabled an offer on Aug. 29 that included tentatively agreed-upon language, said the union, but wages and hours of work remain sticking points.

Bieksa said workers should be able to work when they are available.

“Right now, Starbucks continues to hire people, which is good, but sometimes they hire too many people and then everyone suffers through hours being cut and promised hours are not kept,” he said. “These workers need better protection for stable hours and scheduling.”