UK workplace union campaigns for better pay, working conditions in coffee chains

The union says that the industry is plagued with low pay and insecure contracts.

Hospitality workplace union Unite is campaigning for better pay and working conditions for those working in major coffee chains in the UK.

In a report, the union says the industry is rife with low pay, chronic staffing shortages and insecure contracts. 

The group is planning a solidarity action with coffee shop staff across 51 towns and cities in the UK where campaigners will visit select outlets of Starbucks, Costa Coffee, Caffé Nero and Pret A Manger to speak to employees about the Baristas United campaign. 

“For too long baristas and café workers have suffered from some of the lowest pay and most insecure contracts in the British economy. Baristas from across the country face poverty pay, inconsistent hours and chronic understaffing – even though their employers continue to rake in huge profits. Our campaign aims to change that. By bringing together workers from across the coffee sector’s Big Four, we will develop organising strategies that seek to drive up standards across the sector,” said Bryan Simpson, Lead Organiser for Hospitality at Unite said.