Starbucks gift cards are often seen as a convenient and easy gift, especially for those hard-to-shop-for people or last-minute presents. As someone who has worked in the coffee industry, I’ve received my fair share of these cards from well-meaning relatives. They are readily available at numerous Starbucks locations and major retailers, making them a go-to for quick gift solutions during holidays or office Secret Santa exchanges.
However, this year, there’s a significant reason to pause before you buy a Starbucks gift card: the unionized Starbucks workers are requesting customers to reconsider their purchase.
Image alt text: Starbucks Workers United TikTok video urging people not to buy Starbucks gift cards, promoting #nocontractnogiftcards.
The call to action is clear: instead of buying Starbucks gift cards, consider supporting local coffee shops. This request comes amidst ongoing labor disputes and unionization efforts within Starbucks.
Think about those old gift cards you might have tucked away – perhaps a Starbucks card with a few cents left on it. While that small amount might seem insignificant to you, collectively, these small balances add up to a staggering sum for the coffee giant. Reports indicate that over a billion dollars remains unspent on Starbucks gift cards. This “unused” money, whether from forgotten small amounts or lost cards, essentially functions as an interest-free loan for Starbucks. In 2020 alone, an estimated $164.5 million on Starbucks gift cards went unredeemed, being recorded as revenue – a windfall for the corporation.
This becomes particularly relevant when considering Starbucks’ response to its workers’ unionization efforts. Numerous reports have highlighted Starbucks’ aggressive stance against the union movement. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has reportedly cited Starbucks for over 900 violations of federal labor law, accusing the company of employing union-busting tactics, from offering differential benefits to non-union stores to allegedly firing around 150 workers in retaliation for union activities.
While one might assume Starbucks’ resistance is purely about potential revenue loss from increased wages and benefits for unionized staff, the reality seems more complex. Starbucks, a company with vast financial resources, appears to be prioritizing union suppression over fair labor practices. Therefore, this holiday season, consider redirecting your funds to businesses that better align with supporting their employees.
Here are some thoughtful alternatives to consider instead of buying a Starbucks gift card.
Support Local: Gift Cards from Local Coffee Shops and Roasters
One of the best pieces of advice for coffee lovers is to explore and support local coffee shops. Almost every community boasts talented small-batch roasters who are passionate about sourcing quality beans and serving their neighborhoods. Buying a gift card from a local coffee shop or roastery is just as convenient as buying a Starbucks gift card. Many local businesses offer online gift card purchases, making it a quick and easy process.
If you’re unsure where to start, finding a local gem is easy. Simply search online for “local coffee shops near me” or “[your city] coffee roasters” to discover excellent options in your area.
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Image alt text: Close-up of hand holding a coffee cup in a cafe, representing local coffee shop support instead of buying Starbucks gift cards.
Explore Coffee Roasters Featured on Boss Barista
Another excellent option is to support roasters who have been featured on platforms like Boss Barista, highlighting individuals passionate about coffee and ethical practices. Many of these roasters operate their own businesses and offer unique, high-quality coffee.
For those seeking a broader gift guide, resources like the Fresh Cup gift guide offer curated recommendations. Additionally, platforms like Serious Eats provide in-depth reviews of coffee products, offering valuable insights for coffee enthusiasts.
By choosing to buy coffee or gift cards from local shops and independent roasters, you not only give a thoughtful gift but also support ethical businesses and passionate individuals within the coffee community.
Need a Recommendation? If you’re looking for specific recommendations for local coffee shops or roasters in your area, feel free to leave a comment with your city, state, or country! I’d be happy to offer personalized suggestions.
☕🎁 Happy slurping and ethical gifting! 🎁☕
Photo by BBiDDac
