SEATTLE — Starbucks plans to close five stores in Seattle in a matter of weeks, including four unionized locations, escalating tensions between the company and some workers in its hometown.
The union confirmed that the affected, unionized locations are:
- 1101 Madison St.
- 4147 University Way NE
- Seattle Center/Armory – 305 Harrison St., Suite 220
- Seattle Children’s – Ocean, 4800 Sand Point Way NE
A fifth, non-union location will also close, the company confirmed:
- 1730 Minor Ave.
According to Starbucks, the five stores are set to close in early April.
In a statement, the baristas’ union Workers United criticized Starbucks leadership and said it has filed an unfair labor practice charge over the closures…