This week in 417 food news: Springfield baristas vote to become fourth unionized Starbucks and the Vegan Chef Challenge is approaching.
Another Springfield Starbucks organizes
Starbucks baristas at 433 W. Sunshine St. voted on April 21 to join Starbucks Workers United, making it the fourth unionized location in Springfield and the second to unionize this year. There are now 19 Starbucks locations in Missouri that are part of SBWU.
The employees were inspired by the nationwide movement, according to a news release, where more than 12,000 baristas have already joined SBWU.
“I was thrilled to cast my vote in favor of unionizing at Starbucks #8670. Unions are the backbone of empowered workers, and by joining the 12,000+ fellow baristas that already make up Starbucks Workers United we are breaking new ground in the service industry,” said Seth Hudspeth, a barista of six months. “We have told the company, in no uncertain terms, what we feel we require to succeed every day at work: improved staffing and hours for partners, a more livable hourly wage to help combat rising costs of living, and protections from unfair labor practices.”…