According to an internal document, Starbucks (SBUX.O) will publish “clearer” centralized guidelines for in-store visual displays after a union claimed managers barred Pride-themed decor.
“We intend to issue clearer centralized guidelines… for in-store visual displays and decorations that will continue to represent inclusivity and our brand,” Starbucks North America President Sara Trilling wrote in the memo.
The letter was issued after the baristas’ union claimed that management at dozens of Starbucks outlets had removed Pride Month flags and decorations. The coffee giant denies these claims.
The union announced Friday that over 3,000 Starbucks employees at 150 US locations will strike.
Starbucks filed two NLRB charges against Workers United on Monday, alleging that the union misrepresented the company’s in-store décor restrictions and gender-affirming care benefits.
The union told Reuters in an email that the NLRB dropped all Starbucks allegations against them and that any additional complaints would be thrown because “they are nothing more than a public relations stunt meant to distract from Starbucks’ own actions.”
The union said that if Starbucks wants to ally with the LGBTQIA+ community, they will listen to their gay workers and negotiate in good faith.
Reuters requested comment from NLRB.
Conservatives and gay rights groups have criticized some U.S. retailers for displaying LGBTQ+ items and not supporting the community.
Comment Template