Unionized workers at Starbucks Corp have voted to authorize an open-ended strike, potentially impacting the coffee giant’s busiest holiday season, according to a statement released Wednesday by Starbucks Workers United. The union said strike actions could begin as early as November 13, Starbucks’ popular Red Cup Day, if a contract agreement is not reached.

Workers Threaten Strike in 25+ Cities

The proposed strike could affect more than 25 cities across the U.S. and may escalate if negotiations continue to stall, the union warned. Talks between Starbucks and the union broke down late last year, with both sides blaming the other for delays, though each said they are willing to return to the bargaining table.

Key Issues: Staffing, Pay, Labor Practices

The union has filed over 1,000 unfair labor practice charges against Starbucks with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging the company is stalling negotiations and mistreating workers. Starbucks Workers United, which represents about 9,500 employees—or roughly 4% of Starbucks’ workforce—is demanding improvements in pay, staffing levels, and workplace protections.

“If Starbucks keeps stonewalling, they should expect to see their business grind to a halt,” said Michelle Eisen, a former Starbucks employee and union spokesperson.

Starbucks Says It Already Offers Leading Benefits

In response, Starbucks said its existing compensation package already offers one of the best retail jobs in the U.S., including healthcare, paid parental leave, and tuition coverage for online courses at Arizona State University. Employees who work at least 20 hours per week are eligible for these benefits.

The company added that it expects to keep the “vast majority” of its stores open during the holiday period regardless of union actions.

Sales Declines and Store Closures

Starbucks is under pressure to regain market share after several quarters of weak sales. CEO Brian Niccol has introduced major operational changes, including the closure of more than 600 stores (many of them unionized) and layoffs within the corporate team.

In late October, Starbucks reported flat same-store sales in North America and a modest 1% global sales increase, following six consecutive quarters of decline.

Earlier this year, union members rejected a Starbucks contract proposal that offered a 2% annual raise, arguing it fell short of necessary changes to benefits and immediate pay bumps. In October, several Starbucks shareholders, including the New York City Comptroller, urged the company to return to negotiations with the union.