Seattle, WA – Starbucks is implementing stricter return-to-office policies for corporate employees. The new policy requires employees to report to the office at least three days per week starting in January. Those who do not comply could face consequences, including potential termination, according to a memo obtained by Bloomberg News.
This decision comes after the company faced criticism for allowing its new CEO, Brian Niccol, to work remotely from his Southern California home. Niccol, who previously led Chipotle, was initially granted permission to run Starbucks from his residence in Newport Beach, over 1,200 miles away from the company’s headquarters in Seattle.
Despite the backlash, Starbucks is enforcing a return-to-office policy for its corporate staff. The company had already mandated a three-day office requirement for its 3,500 corporate employees at the beginning of the year.
Niccol’s appointment as CEO included a signing bonus of $10 million and a base salary of $1.6 million. He also stands to earn additional compensation based on the company’s performance. His role involves spending a majority of his time at the Seattle Support Center, with occasional visits to Starbucks locations worldwide.
The coffee chain is aiming to bounce back from a period of slow sales attributed to factors like inflation. Niccol’s leadership is expected to drive improvements in the company’s performance, building on his successful track record at Chipotle.
Overall, Starbucks’ decision to reinforce its corporate office policy reflects a broader trend in the business world as companies navigate the shift towards hybrid work models. As more organizations grapple with the balance between remote and in-person work, the debate over office attendance and flexibility continues to evolve. The outcome of Starbucks’ approach could set a precedent for other companies facing similar decisions about remote work policies.