Arizona judge rules in favor of Starbucks in suit over termination of employees trying to unionize

Mega coffee chain Starbucks on Thursday praised an Arizona federal judge's decision not to reinstate several former employees of the chain who argued they lost their positions for helping to organize a labor union within their coffee shop.

The decision was handed down Wednesday by U.S. District Judge John Tuchi in a Phoenix, Arizona district court. Tuchi struck down the National Labor Relations Board's request to reinstate the three employees to their former positions.

"There is not sufficient evidence to support the Regional Director’s unfair labor practice charge against Starbucks, thus the Regional Director, the Court finds is not likely to succeed on the merits with regard to these complaints. The Court will deny the injunctive relief requested and it will dismiss the petition," wrote Tuchi.

Tyler Gillette, Laila Dalton, and Alyssa Sanchez were the three employees at the center of the case against the conglomerate.

The Hill reported that a spokesperson for Starbucks said the company was pleased with the court's decision.

"The ruling by the judge today is further evidence that any claims of anti-union activity are categorically false. We respect our partners right to organize, and at the same time we continue to support our local leaders decisions grounded in our Mission and Value," said a spokesperson for the company.

Workers United, the union that represents the Starbucks employees who have recently pushed to unionize citing a deteriorating relationship with management and struggle to make a living wage, says the ruling will not impact them. 

"Today’s ruling of the Federal Judge regarding our Phoenix workers does not in any way stop what we’re doing. We will continue to fight for workers rights by organizing and mobilizing on the ground," said a spokesperson for the organization.