The union representing workers at Starbucks Corp. on Wednesday stepped up its accusations from a day earlier that the coffee chain was prohibiting Pride-themed decorations at U.S. stores, saying it had documented “dozens” of instances of employees being ordered to take down flags and other accessories.
In a memo to employees sent Tuesday evening, Starbucks SBUX said the union’s accusations were “simply not true,” but said it would offer more guidance for store displays in the coming months. The company earlier that day said it had not changed its policy on Pride month and that it “unwaveringly” supported LGBTQ+ people.
He added later in the memo: “We will have more clarity for local leaders on in-store displays in the months ahead.” Dozens of Starbucks stores have voted to unionize since late 2021, but talks over a contract have been slow. The union has accused the company of delay tactics, while Starbucks has accused the union of failing to adhere to negotiation terms. But frequent allegations of union-busting against the coffee chain have led to deeper scrutiny from lawmakers and threatened the company’s progressive image.