[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Starbucks has demanded a halt to the mail-in voting for union formation currently underway among store employees across the United States. The company claims that some regional offices of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) are siding with the unions and cooperating with them.
According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and others on the 15th (local time), Starbucks delivered a 14-page letter to the NLRB, alleging that NLRB staff in certain areas such as Buffalo, New York, Seattle, and Kansas City have engaged in illegal activities during the processing of union mail-in ballots. The NLRB is responsible for adjudicating labor disputes in the U.S., but Starbucks claims that they are distorting the voting results to favor union formation through unfair practices.
Normally, these votes are conducted in person, but mail-in voting has been allowed since the COVID-19 pandemic. Starbucks argues that while ballots must be submitted by mail, some pro-union NLRB staff have permitted certain pro-union employees to submit ballots in person, effectively allowing direct voting and siding with the union organizers. Starbucks further added that considering the current COVID-19 situation, mail-in voting is unnecessary and that voting should be conducted in person.
In the letter sent to the board, Starbucks stated, "Due to these illegal actions by NLRB staff, we immediately request the suspension of nationwide mail-in voting." The company also urged the board to investigate and disclose these actions and to establish safeguards to prevent recurrence.
Starbucks management has continuously attempted to block union formation, but recently, union formations at Starbucks stores have been increasing. As of the 13th, 199 stores have been approved for union formation, and 314 stores have filed union voting petitions.
Regarding this, the NLRB told CNN that "We do not comment on pending cases," and did not express any special position.
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