Matchstick addresses workplace allegations

The co-owner of a popular Vancouver coffee shop chain is stepping back following online allegations of toxic workplaces practices.

In a statement Wednesday afternoon on its Instagram, Matchstick Coffee managers acknowledged posts that had surfaced in recent days, some of which allege toxic work environments, manipulative managerial practices, lack of training and unpaid overtime.

The dozens of allegations — many posted anonymously to an Instagram account — appear to revolve around co-owner and co-founder Spencer Viehweger and his interactions with employees.

“In light of what has been shared, Spencer is stepping away from his in-person roles at Matchstick to make space for the group to process and heal from these events,” the company said in a statement.

“With the help of a third party HR film called Inspired HR, we plan to make space for our staff to speak up and share their concerns, and to look internally at the state of Matchstick today.

“Matchstick is more than just one person. As managers at Matchstick, we recognize that this is only the first of many steps to make our cafes a truly safe and inclusive workplace for all.”

As of Thursday afternoon, 42 posts had been made on an anonymous Instagram account, each post highlighting the experience of a different past or present employee that had been submitted.

Many stories referenced manipulative practices, emotional abuse, lack of overtime pay, and demanding standards. Matchstick has five locations including on Fraser Street, in Chinatown, Riley Park, Yaletown and Davie.