ROCKFORD, Ill. — Starbucks union workers in Rockford joined a national movement of pickets as baristas escalate their contract demands and prepare to strike.

Baristas have begun voting on whether to authorize a strike if Starbucks continues to delay contract negotiations.

About a dozen local union workers rallied outside the Starbucks on North Perryville Road Thursday, chanting and holding signs that read "No Contract, No Coffee." They are demanding improved staffing and increased wages.

"We want better because we know they can do better," said Ash Schamper, Starbucks Workers United Barista. "They have been constantly changing policies that have been making our jobs harder, and adding new drinks that make our jobs harder, even though they said they wanted to simplify the menu."

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