BROOKLAND, AR — (BrooklandNews.com) — May 15, 2025 — A new dress code that went into effect early this week is leaving thousands of Starbucks baristas to go on strike.
The new dress code, which took effect on Sunday, requires employees to wear a solid black shirt and khaki, black, or blue denim bottoms. Shirts can be short- or long-sleeved and collared or collarless, under their green apron. Employees received two free black t-shirts.
The Associated Press reports that more than 1,000 employees are on strike at over 75 locations. Starbucks Workers United, the union that represents 570 locations, says the new uniform requirement is subject to collective bargaining.
A memo released by the company says it is to create a sense of familiarity for customers.
Employees have stressed that Starbucks is not worried about the right thing. While Starbucks says the strikes have had limited effects on its stores.
None of the 52 Starbucks locations in Arkansas have been reported as affected.