Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol’s recent efforts to streamline operations and revitalize the brand have brought some changes, including a nostalgic return to personalized messages on coffee cups.
Employees have been instructed to add thoughtful notes to each cup, such as affirmations, well wishes, and “hello again” for returning customers. While many customers appreciate the personal touch, not all baristas are happy about the new policy. Some workers argue that the added task is slowing them down and causing unnecessary stress.
“It’s a lot to add to our already busy tasks,” said Amanda Rivera, an Atlanta-based Starbucks employee and leader of Starbucks Workers United. “It would feel more genuine if I wasn’t so stressed trying to juggle making ten other cups.”
Some baristas feel the forced nature of the policy takes away from its sincerity. “I don’t want to just write ‘have an amazing day’ on every cup,” Rivera added. “Is that really connecting with customers?”
Online, employees have expressed frustration with the policy. One Reddit user shared, “Is it new policy we have to write ALL OF THEM??? That is insane, please guys, I can’t wait to quit.” Another user added, “I always start my shift with cute notes, but once we get busy, the cups are blank.”
Others have voiced similar sentiments, with one comment reading, “I truly do not want some inspirational quote on my coffee cup. I’m an adult.”
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