Starbucks gets strict with its return-to-office policy

Starbucks is reinforcing its rule that corporate employees must work from the office three days a week, warning that not following the policy could result in termination.

Starting in January, the company will track compliance more strictly, but employees can choose which day to work from the office.

New CEO Brian Niccol, who left Chipotle and joined the coffee giant in September, also works in a hybrid role, commuting by jet from California to Seattle.

The increased enforcement comes as Starbucks reported last week its US same-store sales fell 6% in the latest quarter, missed earnings expectations and sales for Q4, and suspended its financial guidance for the next fiscal year.

Niccol aims to turn around performance by reviewing pricing, adjusting marketing, and improving in-store experiences.

The coffee chain’s policy change aligns with many other companies revisiting in-office requirements post-pandemic.

Amazon recently announced that starting in 2025, it wants corporate employees to work from the office five days a week.

Dell’s return-to-office policy, announced earlier this year, faced resistance from half of its US workforce.