Unite accuses Starbucks supplier of union busting amid disciplinary row
This follows the suspension of two prominent shop stewards at its Hemel Hempstead depot
Unite the union has accused Food Service Logistics (FSL), a key supplier to Starbucks in the south of England, of union busting following the suspension of two prominent shop stewards at its Hemel Hempstead depot.
The senior steward and their deputy face disciplinary hearings next week after allegedly being involved in an altercation—charges that Unite says are “trumped-up” and a clear act of retaliation.
According to the union, both workers were unfairly singled out for tasks outside their job descriptions and have been targeted due to their union activities.
Unite claims the suspensions come shortly after the two stewards lodged multiple grievances with management, including allegations of discrimination related to their trade union involvement and mistreatment of other Unite members.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is a case of union busting, pure and simple - and Unite will not idly stand by while two hardworking shop stewards are singled out in this way.
"We will always do whatever it takes to defend our members and shop stewards from discrimination and we demand that Food Service Logistics do the right thing and stop this disciplinary action now."
Food Service Logistics supplies Starbucks’ retail network across the south of England, including several franchised stores. Starbucks itself has faced widespread criticism in the United States over alleged anti-union tactics, including unfair dismissals of union organisers.
In a recent consultative ballot of Unite members at FSL, 100% supported reinstatement of the suspended stewards. The two individuals have played a key role in growing Unite membership at the site by 350%, with nearly 100 members now represented.
Unite warned that if the disciplinary proceedings scheduled for Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 August go ahead, the union will consider escalating the dispute — including a formal strike ballot.
The union is calling on both Food Service Logistics and Starbucks to intervene and ensure fair treatment of union members in their supply chains.
Unite regional officer Alan Brkljac said: "Food Service Logistics are clearly unfairly targeting these two Unite representatives due to the fact they are highly successful and respected shop stewards.
"Essentially, they are being penalised for being too good at the union work they do. No worker should face losing their jobs due to undertaking trade union activity and we demand that they are reinstated immediately otherwise there will be an escalation of further action."