Starbucks and Union Clash Over Trademarks Amidst Pro-Palestinian Social Media Posts
October 19, 2023
Starbucks and the labor group representing over 360 of its unionized stores in the U.S. are engaged in a legal dispute over the use of the company’s name and logos. This legal battle arose when the union and a local affiliate posted or reposted social media messages expressing solidarity with Palestine. Starbucks has accused Starbucks Workers United and an affiliate of damaging the brand’s reputation through trademark infringement, while the union has counter-sued, asking to continue using its circular green logo. This conflict has resulted in property damage, threats, and calls for a boycott against Starbucks.
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