Starbucks now wants corporate employees in the office 4 days a week

Core Points - Starbucks is increasing its return-to-office requirement for corporate employees from three days to four days a week, effective from the start of the new fiscal year in October [1][8] - The new requirement applies to employees near support centers in Seattle and Toronto, as well as other regional offices in North America [1] - CEO Brian Niccol emphasized that in-person work enhances idea sharing, problem-solving, and cultural strengthening, which are crucial for the company's turnaround efforts [2][9] Financial Performance - Starbucks' sales for the last quarter slipped by 1%, indicating that the company's results have not yet improved [3] Employee Options - Employees who prefer not to comply with the new four-day office requirement will have the option to leave the company for a one-time cash payment [8] Leadership Changes - The previous CEO, Howard Schultz, had mandated a three-day in-office requirement starting in early 2023 [8] - CEO Brian Niccol, who began his role in September, has established an office and residence in Seattle to facilitate his work [9]