Message from Howard Schultz: Love, responsibility are core to my relationship with Starbucks
“I am proud to once again put on the green apron in service of our company, advancing our mission to connect with one another and our customers,” wrote Howard Schultz.
Dear Starbucks Partners:
There are two words that I have often used to describe my relationship with Starbucks. The first word is Love. My 40 years of love for Starbucks began as a partner on September 7, 1982 and continues to this day. And even while I have been away from the day-to-day management of the company, Starbucks is never far from my thoughts.
Earlier today, Kevin and Mellody Hobson shared the news that I will be returning to this company that I love. I am proud to once again put on the green apron in service of our company, advancing our mission to connect with one another and our customers.
The second word that applies to all of us is Responsibility. The world today needs Starbucks to be the best version of ourselves…an ever improving, ever evolving version. We have a responsibility to continue to serve our customers with the passion that has defined the Starbucks Experience. And to be a place of welcome and hope for all people. As we watch the events unfold in Ukraine and take stock of the changes and hardships that you and your families have experienced in these last two years, this has never been more needed.
We also have the responsibility to look inward. We have to take a hard look at how we are doing as a company, and as a community of partners. Are we acting in ways to help each other thrive? What is the future of work at Starbucks that we will all be exceptionally proud of? These are the questions on my mind as we renew a journey to see beyond what Starbucks has been and what it is today to what it will become. As I prepare for the work ahead, I’m eager to listen and learn from all of you.
I’m looking forward to connecting with you in the weeks ahead. Until then, please feel free to reach out directly.
Onward,
Howard
