Starbucks founder Howard Schultz joins ceo Brian Niccol during partner Quarterly Connect

Starbucks chairman and chief executive officer Brian Niccol welcomed founder Howard Schultz at the Starbucks Support Center in Seattle yesterday during a “Quarterly Connect” with partners (employees). Schultz offered his invaluable perspective and hard-earned wisdom on what it takes to transform a business. He also discussed the unmatched power of Starbucks culture, the critical importance of setting and upholding high standards, and above all, the enduring commitment to our green apron partners and the customers we serve. 

“The world needs Starbucks,” Schultz said. “Bringing back the third place, bringing back the stores that are welcoming, creating an environment that’s really there for everyone. This is what we need to do as a company, and once we do, the glory of Starbucks is going to be back.” 

Schultz also shared, “I’m here to tell you that I believe in the future of the company. I believe in what Brian’s doing, and all of us need to be facing the same direction, tied to the hip, embracing the coffee, embracing the strategy, and executing what we need to do to make Starbucks the place we all love and admire.” 

The galvanizing event kicked off with a coffee tasting of an exclusive dark-roast coffee from Hacienda Alsacia and an invitation for partners who are certified Coffee Masters to apply for next year’s Origin Experience in Costa Rica. It also featured an update on Back to Starbucks from chief operating officer Mike Grams, with highlights from the Green Apron Service model rollout and a panel discussion with Starbucks regional vice presidents from across the United States.  

“The Partner Experience survey is at a five-year high, people are feeling really good about what is going on. The energy inside the coffeehouses is the best I’ve ever seen.” Grams said.