Starbucks announced it is increasing wages and adding new benefits for most non-union hourly employees in the U.S. following a year of record sales. The wage increases, which take effect January 1st, include raises of 3-5% depending on years of service. Employees with 5+ years will be eligible for a 5% raise. Starbucks is also reducing the time for workers to accrue vacation days from 1 year to 90 days. The company stated these new benefits are not available to unionized stores since they must be negotiated. The union has rejected this claim and plans to file unfair labor practice charges.
