WASHINGTON (April 6, 2026) – Starbucks recently announced compensation changes, including expanded bonus opportunities, wage increases, and a shift to weekly pay for both corporate and retail employees.
“These changes signal the next phase of Starbucks’ turnaround—one that puts employees at the center by aligning market wages with performance incentives,” said Chris Kayes, chair of the department of management and professor of management at the George Washington University School of Business. “CEO Bria Niccol has come to the realization that he can’t accomplish this turnaround without a loyal and vibrant workforce to put the vision into place.”
Kayes added that the move reflects a broader shift in the labor market. “We’re seeing employers, not policymakers, take a more active role in addressing wage pressures, affordability, and worker expectations in a tight labor environment.”
If you would like to schedule an interview with Professor Kayes, please contact Claire Sabin at claire [dot] sabin
gwu [dot] edu (claire[dot]sabin[at]gwu[dot]edu).
-GW-