On June 20, over 95 workers at five Seven Stars Bakery locations in Providence, Rumford and Cranston, R.I., joined UFCW Local 328 for a better life. The workers, who are employed as baristas, counter staff, keyholders and re-stockers, joined our union family because they were concerned about insufficient wages, a lack of benefits for part-time workers, the lack of a clear path to full-time status, and on call scheduling.
Seven Stars Bakery owners Bill and Tracy Daugherty announced their decision to voluntarily recognize the workers’ decision to join our union following a card check election on June 20.
“We’re so excited that Seven Stars has chosen to voluntarily recognize our union and that we’ll soon begin negotiations,” said Grace Harvey, a barista at the Broadway location in Providence. “This would not have been possible without the support we received from the community. We value the strong connections we build with our customers each day and appreciate all of their continued support.”
“I am so excited about our recognition from the company,” said Natasha Brennan, a barista at the Point St. location in Providence. “All of us love our jobs and love each other. As Seven Stars continues to grow with more locations, we want ourselves and our future coworkers to have better protections, wages, and benefits. Unionization ensures this for everyone.”
“We are so proud of the solidarity Seven Stars workers have shown for each other throughout this process,” said UFCW Local 328 Director of Organizing Sam Marvin. “This would not have been possible without their strength, courage and commitment. We welcome and applaud the company’s decision to recognize the workers’ request and look forward to productive negotiation sessions that will strengthen both the futures and workplaces of Seven Stars workers.”