Coffee companies are going all in on automation. We’re told that it improves efficiency, cuts costs, and yields a better product. But what does it mean for the baristas whose labour these automations displace?
Many college campuses serve Starbucks—Gen Z is, after all, fueling Starbucks continued growth—but now some students are urging their universities to ditch the company over its anti-union tactics. “This can happen on any university campus, with any affiliate of Starbucks, and it will happen if they continue to union-bust,” said Nick Wilson, a Cornell student and former Starbucks worker.
Plus, Cxffeeblack is raising funds for its barista exchange program, and Dean from Dean’s Beans Organic Coffee is retiring and the company is becoming a worker-owned co-op.
I'm the creator and writer of The Pourover. Based in Scotland, I have over a decade of experience in the specialty coffee industry as a barista, roaster, and writer. Ask me about coffeewashing.
