Blue Bottle Coffee Workers Score a Major Victory by Unionizing in Massachusetts in 2024
In 2024, the workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in Massachusetts achieved a significant victory by successfully unionizing the Nestle-owned coffee chain. This historic moment not only marked a major milestone for the workers in the state but also sent a powerful message to the rest of the world. Today, these workers are not only fighting for their first contract, but they are also building international solidarity with unions along the supply chain.
For those who are not familiar with Blue Bottle Coffee, it is a specialty coffee chain known for its high-quality beans and unique brewing methods. It was founded in 2002 by James Freeman, who started selling coffee out of a small cart in Oakland, California. Since then, the company has expanded to more than 50 locations in the United States and Japan. However, with its rapid growth, the workers of Blue Bottle Coffee faced numerous challenges, including low wages, lack of benefits, and inconsistent scheduling.
For years, the workers had been trying to address these issues with the management, but their voices were not being heard. That’s when they decided to take matters into their own hands and unionize. With the support of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) Local 117, the workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in Massachusetts successfully formed a union. This was a significant victory, not only for the workers but also for the labor movement in the state.
The formation of the union meant that the workers now had a collective voice to negotiate for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. It also gave them job security and protection against arbitrary firings. The union also allowed the workers to have a say in the decision-making process of the company, ensuring their needs and concerns were taken into consideration.
But the fight for fair working conditions did not end there. The workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in Massachusetts continued to push for their first contract with the company. This contract would set the standard for future negotiations and would determine the wages, benefits, and other important aspects of their employment. However, the negotiations were not easy, and the company was not willing to meet the workers’ demands.
Despite the challenges, the workers remained determined and strong, and their perseverance paid off. In August 2025, after months of negotiations, the workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in Massachusetts finally reached an agreement with the company on their first contract. This victory not only improved the working conditions for the workers but also set an example for other workers in the coffee industry.
But the fight did not end there. The workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in Massachusetts realized that their struggle was not just limited to their workplace; it was connected to the struggles of workers along the supply chain. That’s when they started building international solidarity with unions in other countries, including coffee-producing countries like Colombia and Ethiopia.
Through this international solidarity, the workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in Massachusetts were able to understand the challenges faced by coffee farmers and workers in these countries. They also learned about the unfair trade practices and exploitation in the coffee industry. Together, with unions from these countries, they are working towards creating a more equitable and sustainable coffee supply chain.
The victory of Blue Bottle Coffee workers in Massachusetts has ignited hope and inspiration in the hearts of workers all over the world. It has shown that when workers come together and stand in solidarity, they can achieve great things. The unionization of Blue Bottle Coffee has also set an example for other coffee chains to follow, showing that treating workers with dignity and respect is not only the right thing to do but also beneficial for the company’s success.
As we celebrate this historic victory, let us not forget the power of unity and solidarity. Let us continue to support and uplift the workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in their fight for fair working conditions, and let us stand in solidarity with all workers who are fighting for their rights. Together, we can create a more just and equitable world for all.
In the words of James Freeman, the founder of Blue Bottle Coffee, “If the people in power won’t do the right thing, then it’s up to us to make it happen.” The workers of Blue Bottle Coffee in Massachusetts have proven this to be true, and their victory will serve as a beacon of hope for workers everywhere. Let us continue to support their cause and work towards a better future for all workers.
