BENTON, Ark. — Baristas at the Starbucks near the Benton-Bryant border are on strike, joining a national wave of labor action demanding fair contracts, better wages, and an end to alleged union-busting. Workers at the location, situated at Interstate 30 and Alcoa Road, began picketing this week with signs reading “Honk for Union” and “No Contract, No Starbucks.”

See video below.

The protest is part of the “Red Cup Rebellion,” a nationwide strike organized by Starbucks Workers United. The action began in mid-November 2025 to coincide with the company’s promotional “Red Cup Day.” Workers are calling attention to what they describe as unfair labor practices, including retaliation against union organizers and stalled contract negotiations.

Employees are demanding higher base pay—around $20 per hour—along with improved staffing and consistent scheduling. Organizers say the strike will continue indefinitely until Starbucks agrees to negotiate fair contracts. Customers are being asked to support the workers by avoiding Starbucks stores and following @sbworkersunited on social media.