Starbucks CEO threatens staff with firings over office return policy
- Starbucks will enforce a return-to-office mandate starting in January for corporate employees.
- Approximately 3,500 workers will be affected by this policy, which does allow for disability exemptions.
- The emphasis on in-office attendance reflects a larger trend among companies but raises concerns about employee retention.
In the U.S., Starbucks announced a new return-to-office policy set to begin in January, reinforcing accountability among corporate employees who fail to comply. This decision marks a significant shift in management as CEO Brian Niccol has emphasized that employees should mainly work from the office, despite earlier assurances of flexibility. However, the memo indicates the company will consider exemptions for those with disabilities, excluding vacation and sick leave from the attendance calculation. The policy primarily affects 3,500 corporate staff, contrasting with Starbucks’ broader workforce, most of whom work in stores. Other companies have adopted similar measures, leading to concern over employee retention, particularly among experienced staff. This illustrates a growing trend among major corporations to push for in-office work, creating friction and dissatisfaction among employees who prefer to work remotely. Niccol's own work arrangement has attracted scrutiny, as he lives in California while managing operations in Seattle, prompting calls for a more equitable work policy.