British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran is facing criticism from Starbucks Workers United after he filmed a promotion for his upcoming album at a Seattle Starbucks store where unfair treatment of the union has been alleged.
Mr. Sheeran visited the coffee shop on Friday and worked a shift, wearing the iconic green apron of a Starbucks barista. He made drinks and interacted with customers as part of a video promotion for his “Autumn Variations” LP. However, some Starbucks workers and their union did not appreciate the video.
According to Starbucks Workers United, the store that Mr. Sheeran visited has faced multiple allegations of unfair treatment towards the union. It is important to note that this particular location is not unionized.
“Ed Sheeran working a shift at a Starbucks store in Seattle that faced massive union busting is straight up embarrassing,” the union posted on X.
Ed Sheeran working a shift at a Starbucks store in Seattle that faced massive union-busting is straight up embarrassing. pic.twitter.com/G27lGHhpXV</ a>
— Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) August 26, 2023
The union claimed that every worker in the video was management, not rank and file. However, a Starbucks spokesperson denied this claim.
This incident highlights the increasing labor awareness at Starbucks.
Despite the controversy, fans appeared to enjoy the Sheeran experience. The video, which was posted on Starbucks’ TikTok account, shows many customers and workers having a good time.
