Starbucks has issued a clear warning to its corporate employees about the importance of complying with its hybrid work policy. An internal communication stated that failure to adhere to this policy could result in termination.
Starting in January 2025, the policy will require employees to work from the office three days a week and will implement an “accountability process.” A Starbucks spokesperson confirmed to Bloomberg News that the company is supporting managers in ensuring their teams follow the hybrid model. Additionally, the policy has been updated to remove Tuesday as a mandatory office day, allowing managers the flexibility to choose the in-office days that work best for their teams.
This three-day office policy, established two years ago, underscores Starbucks’ belief that a strong workplace presence is essential for success. Since becoming CEO in September 2024, Brian Niccol, who previously served as the CEO of Chipotle, has advocated for increased office attendance. During a recent forum, Niccol emphasised that physical presence enhances team success, a viewpoint he has held since his time at Chipotle, where he supported a four-day in-office work week.
Starbucks’ decision aligns with a broader trend in the industry that encourages in-office work following years of remote flexibility prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Amazon is another prominent company implementing this shift, planning to enforce a full-time office mandate by January 2025.
