New bonus programme to grant employees up to $1,200 per year
Starbucks has announced that baristas and shift supervisors will receive an additional $300 quarterly bonus under a new incentive program rolling out in its US coffeehouses this July.
Chief operating officer Mike Grams and chief partner officer Sara Kelly informed employees of the change earlier this month.
Under the program, baristas and shift supervisors can earn up to an additional $1,200 per year ($300 per quarter) when their coffeehouse meets and exceeds sales, operational, and customer service metrics.
"This reward recognises teams that work together to deliver excellence and is part of our commitment to shared success," the executives told employees. "The programme begins in July with the first payout determined this fall."
The new bonus scheme adds to Starbucks' compensation package for employees, who are earning an average total pay and benefits valued at more than $30 per hour.
The company also currently offers comprehensive healthcare, stock awards, a paid college degree, and flexible leave.
The change also comes amid ongoing efforts by employees to unionise, with calls urging Starbucks to provide better pay, improved staffing, and better working conditions.
Approximately 5% of its coffeehouses in the US have a union, according to Starbucks.
It noted that its latest incentive program will be subject to collective bargaining in these locations as required by federal law.
Expanded tipping options, new pay scheme
Meanwhile, Grams and Kelly also announced that Starbucks is expanding tipping options across its ordering and payment channels.
"Taken together, the new bonus and expanded tipping options have the potential to increase what eligible partners receive by approximately 5–8% on average, on top of what you receive today," they said.
The company is also shifting to a weekly pay scheme beginning in August, citing employees' requests to be paid sooner.
"You'll get the money you earn, faster," they said.
Leadership opportunities will also be expanded within the organisation through the addition of a coffeehouse coach role, who will be full-time members of management and will help keep locations running smoothly.
"We know the opportunity to grow a career at Starbucks is also important," they said.
"We'll soon share plans for a new Next Leadership Academy to help partners grow at Starbucks, and seize the opportunity provided by our new coffeehouse coach roles and our commitment to fill 90% of retail leadership roles from within."
