First-ever Starbucks North America Barista Championship is a celebration of our partners
More than 15,000 retail partners are expected to challenge themselves in a five-month-long competition that will spotlight the foundational skills of a Starbucks barista.
In celebration of our baristas who embody our commitment to community, connection and craft, Starbucks is kicking off its first-ever North America Barista Championship. One hourly partner from each participating store in the U.S. and Canada will be selected to compete – more than 15,000 participants – and a winner will be crowned in June 2024.
“Whoever is standing on the stage at the end of this championship, we want every Starbucks barista to be able to feel a sense of connection to this person and to be proud that person is their partner,” said Ann-Marie Kurtz, learning and development manager on the global coffee education team.
“There’s so much work our baristas put into serving coffee in today’s complex world – to follow quality standards, to craft beverages, to make those connections with our customers and our communities. Taking the time to really see them, celebrate them, honor them and share an appreciation for what they do is important. Incredibly important. This is a chance for us to celebrate baristas on a really big stage.”
Barista Championship competitions have taken place in markets globally over the last 10 years, starting in 2013 in Ireland and the United Kingdom. Most regions around the world host a championship annually. This will be the first time a winner will represent all of the U.S. and Canada.
The upcoming North America competition will be grounded in the foundational expectations of a Starbucks barista – what they do every day.
Here’s how it will work.
“Off the heels of reintroducing Coffee Master and Origin Experience last year, we knew this was our next partner experience investment that couldn’t wait,” said Sara Trilling, executive vice president, president North America. “We’ve seen this time-honored, global tradition for Starbucks partners in markets around the world and how meaningful it is to partners, their stores and their communities, and we’re thrilled to extend that experience to North America.
"Our charter is to celebrate baristas who embody our commitment to craft and infuse joy in all they do."
As part of Starbucks promise to ensure the future of coffee for all, the company is committed to deepening our partners knowledge and passion for coffee. Learn more about our Coffee Master and Origin Experience programming.
The Company recognizes changes to wages, benefits, and/or terms and conditions may not be unilaterally implemented for partners in stores with organizing under way and may be subject to collective bargaining in good faith for partners in stores with certified union representation.
