The National Labor Relations Board is asking a federal court to order Starbucks to stop using what the federal agency calls an "array of illegal tactics" aimed at workers involved in unionization efforts at the coffee chain's stores.
Starbucks opposes the unionization effort, arguing the company runs better when dealing directly with its employees.
But it has consistently rejected claims it uses unlawful tactics aimed at discouraging workers from trying to organize.
"As we have said previously, we believe these claims are false and will be prepared to defend our case," a spokesperson told CBS MoneyWatch in an email.
In its most recent filing, the NLRB called on the court to order Starbucks to reinstate seven Buffalo workers that the agency contends were illegally fired for trying to form a union.
It also wants the court to require Starbucks to negotiate with a store whose union election was harmed by what the panel says were the company's anti-union efforts.
Starbucks Workers United, the group leading the unionization drive, praised the NLRB's petition. »
