As Starbucks welcomes its new CEO, the heart of the company – its baristas – have some crucial insights to share. We spoke with five passionate team members about their hopes for the future of the coffee giant. Here’s what they had to say:

1. Sarah: Prioritize Work-Life Balance

“I love my job, but burnout is real,” says Sarah, a 3-year veteran. “I hope the new CEO can implement more flexible scheduling and improve our paid time off policies. Happy baristas make happy customers!”

2. Miguel: Invest in Sustainable Practices

Miguel, an environmental science student, emphasizes sustainability: “We need to double down on our eco-friendly initiatives. Let’s aim for 100% recyclable cups and expand our plant-based menu options. It’s good for the planet and our brand.”

3. Aisha: Enhance Training and Career Development

“Starbucks has given me incredible opportunities,” Aisha shares. “But we can do more. I’d love to see expanded training programs and clearer pathways for advancement. Investing in us is investing in the company’s future.”

4. Tom: Streamline Operations for Better Customer Service

Tom, a shift supervisor, focuses on efficiency: “We need to optimize our processes, especially during rush hours. Updated equipment and smarter store layouts could significantly improve our speed of service without sacrificing quality.”

5. Lily: Foster a More Inclusive Workplace

“As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I appreciate Starbucks’ inclusivity,” Lily notes. “But there’s always room for growth. I hope the new CEO will continue to champion diversity and create even more inclusive policies and training.”

These dedicated baristas represent thousands of voices across the Starbucks network. By addressing these key areas – work-life balance, sustainability, career development, operational efficiency, and inclusivity – the new CEO has a unique opportunity to energize the workforce and propel Starbucks into a new era of success.

As these baristas have shown, the path forward isn’t just about profits – it’s about people, planet, and purpose. The future of Starbucks is in the hands of its new leader, but its heart will always be with its baristas.