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In a recent development, Starbucks employees in California, Colorado, and Illinois have taken legal action against the coffee giant, alleging that the company's new dress code violates state laws.
The lawsuits, filed on Wednesday, claim that Starbucks has failed to reimburse workers for expenses incurred as a result of the new dress code, which primarily benefits the company. The new code, implemented on May 12, 2023, requires all North American workers to adhere to specific clothing standards, including wearing solid black shirts, khaki, black, or blue denim bottoms, and shoes made from a waterproof material.
Brooke Allen, a full-time student and Starbucks employee in Davis, California, is one of the plaintiffs. Allen, who previously expressed her individuality through colorful shirts and multiple facial piercings, has spent an additional $86.95 on black shirts and jeans to comply with the new code. Allen was also told by a manager that her Crocs did not meet the new standards and had to spend $60.09 to purchase compliant shoes.
Allen, along with other employees, has requested reimbursement from Starbucks but has been denied. Gilbert Cruz, an employee in Aurora, Illinois, requested reimbursement for the cost of removing a nose piercing, but was also denied.
The dress code also includes restrictions on facial piercings, face tattoos, and "theatrical makeup." Workers who do not comply with the new dress code are not allowed to start their shifts.
The lawsuits are backed by the union organizing Starbucks' workers. Worker-led lawsuits in state courts represent a shift in tactics in the multi-year effort to unionize Starbucks' stores.
Starbucks has defended the new dress code, stating that it aims to make employees' green aprons stand out and create a warmer, more welcoming experience in its stores. However, the plaintiffs argue that it is "extremely tone deaf" for the company to expect employees to redesign their wardrobes without compensation.
The lawsuits are being heard in Colorado, where it is prohibited for employers to impose expenses on workers without their written consent, according to the lawsuit filed in Colorado. The outcome of these cases could have significant implications for Starbucks and its employees.
The board's ability to hear cases has been curtailed under President Donald Trump, as Trump fired an NLRB member in the spring, leaving the board without the quorum it needs to decide cases. Despite this, the lawsuits continue to move forward.
This is a developing story and more updates will follow as more information becomes available.
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