Starbucks makes big change that should improve your experience

If one wants a harmonious business, the happiness of those helping run it should be prioritized. Starbucks has devised a solution to accomplish just that.

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The coffee chain’s new strategy follows its struggles with continuous sales declines and slower store traffic over the last few quarters. 

To return business to growth, Starbucks developed the “Back to Starbucks” turnaround plan, which included optimizing operations, prioritizing coffee quality, and simplifying its menu.

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In the last several months, Starbucks  (SBUX)  reintroduced condiment bars and ceramic mugs for in-house sipping, brought back handwritten notes on to-go cups and bags to foster better customer connections, and returned the free in-café refills to make its coffee shops feel more like homes.

To increase efficiency, the coffee giant also refreshed its menu with a simpler version, discontinuing 13 items and eliminating extra charges for milk alternatives.

Starbucks makes major changes in its business with a turnaround plan

Starbucks has even gone beyond tweaking the store experience and menu. The chain will close underperforming shops to invest in building new locations and revamping old ones, encouraging customers to stay longer.

And just last month, Starbucks implemented a new dress code for its baristas across all North American stores to enhance its iconic green apron, marking its first update in nearly a decade.

Now, the coffee giant is making another change regarding its baristas, and this one requires a significant investment. 

Starbucks makes a big change in its workforce.

Image Source: Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

Starbucks increases investment in its workforce

Starbucks is expanding its workforce by adding at least one full-time assistant store manager to most company-operated stores nationwide beginning this fall.

This move aims to streamline the operation of its stores and improve the overall customer experience by providing staff with the support and help they need, ensuring a consistent leadership presence during operating hours.

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Although anyone may apply for the full-time assistant store manager role, Starbucks wants to encourage its employees to put their best foot forward by supporting career growth and hiring 90% of the new leadership roles internally.  

Currently, approximately 20% of Starbucks stores have an assistant store manager, with most being short-term.

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The hiring process will be multiphased, with the first phase happening this September across six Starbucks districts. This initial step will help the company test the initiative and eventually have a full-time assistant store manager in most of its company-operated coffee shops by 2026. 

Canada will be the next region to follow this process, beginning in summer 2026. 

Although increasing its workforce is a huge investment, Starbucks says the move will bring the company closer to accomplishing its turnaround strategy goals. 

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