The workers at Better Buzz Coffee’s Hillcrest location have made the decision to form a union. In an open letter addressed to the San Diego community, the baristas, trainers, and shift supervisors of Better Buzz Hillcrest, under the name Better Buzz United, have announced their intent to join the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 135.
With a majority of union cards signed, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has set the date of the union representation election for May 17, 2024. On this day, the workers at Better Buzz Hillcrest will have the opportunity to decide whether to join UFCW Local 135.
In the letter, the workers express their commitment to seeking fair treatment and improved working conditions. They highlight concerns about wages, benefits, scheduling, and overall workplace safety that have not been adequately addressed by Better Buzz management.
“We believe that all workers deserve access to benefits, fair wages, and a safe work environment. At Better Buzz Hillcrest, these needs have not been met,” the letter states.
The workers’ key demands include:
- Increase wages to a livable standard
- Provide health and wellness benefits to every Better Buzz employee, regardless of full or part-time status
- Guarantee consistent hours, scheduling, and a comprehensive paid time off (PTO) model
The decision to form a union comes amidst the rapid growth of Better Buzz Coffee in southern California, Arizona, and soon Nevada, with workers expressing concerns that the benefits of this growth have not been shared equitably among employees.
“We are more than cogs in a wheel. We are the fuel that keeps these corporations going, and without us, they are nothing,” the baristas share in the letter.
The workers call on the San Diego community to stand in solidarity with them throughout this process. They acknowledge that union busting efforts from Better Buzz management may occur and urge the community to support them in any way possible.
“We are only in the preliminary stages of this fight, but if Better Buzz deploys union busting efforts, then we will need your support in any way you can offer,” the letter states.
In closing, the workers extend a message of empathy and love to the community, emphasizing the importance of holding space for their cause.
It’s worth noting that UFCW Local 135 is currently in the process of organizing all Better Buzz locations in San Diego County. The Hillcrest location is only the first of many.
The workers of Better Buzz Hillcrest, along with UFCW Local 135, are committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of all workers in the food and service industry. They urge their colleagues at other Better Buzz locations to join them in organizing for positive change.
