Labor

374 Stories

Business

One year later, a union contract for Starbucks baristas is still brewing

It's been over year since Seattle coffee giant Starbucks agreed to start negotiating a national contract with the union representing baristas — Starbucks Workers United. But negotiations have stalled, baristas are growing frustrated, and each side has different ideas about how to turn the company around.
Noel Gasca
Government

Are you a federal worker? We want to hear from you

Reporters at KUOW Public Radio would like to hear from federal workers in Washington state — those who have been let go, and those still working.
KUOW Staff
Law & Courts

Domestic workers could get guaranteed breaks, minimum wage under proposed Washington state bill

Domestic workers in Washington state don’t have guaranteed breaks or minimum pay — unless they’re in the city of Seattle. A bill currently before the Washington state Legislature would change that.
Eilís O'Neill
Business

The steep climb to unionize REI

The successful union drives at REI, Starbucks, and other companies that were historically seen as too difficult to unionize have revived a rusting labor movement. But whether that momentum is sustainable remains to be seen, particularly as organized labor becomes more polarized.
Monica Nickelsburg
Business

'Green vest’ workers fight for union representation on REI board

Unionized REI employees are determined to have a seat at the table of board directors at the beloved outdoor gear company.
Monica Nickelsburg
Business

The clock is ticking for Costco and Teamsters to unite on a new contract

The clock is ticking for Issaquah-based Costco and the Teamsters Union to reach an agreement over a new contract for about 18,000 workers across the country.
Noel Gasca
Politics

How about them apples? WA Congresswoman proposes legislation to block Trump trade war

Washington Congresswoman Suzan DelBene wants to make it impossible for President-elect Donald Trump to impose the broad tariffs he's promised without getting approval from Congress.
Monica Nickelsburg
Business

REI cuts jobs and adventure activity program, citing financial straits

REI is shutting down its classes, tours, and events business, collectively known as Experiences. The outdoor retailer announced the end of Experiences on Wednesday, laying off hundreds of employees in the division.
Monica Nickelsburg
Business

Culture-building or cost-cutting? Amazon's return-to-office order raises questions, fears
Monica Nickelsburg
Business

Starbucks workers strike in Seattle, LA, and Chicago as negotiations stall

Unionized Starbucks workers in Seattle, Los Angeles, and Chicago hit the picket lines Friday. It’s the start of a five-day strike aimed at disrupting Starbucks during the busy days leading up to Christmas, when many customers stop by for seasonal drinks.
Monica Nickelsburg

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