A message from Starbucks ceo: China partners make us proud as stores start to reopen

Dear partners,

It is often through times of adversity that values are tested and courage is demonstrated. 

Over the past few weeks, I have stayed close to the situation in China and how our Starbucks partners in China are navigating a very challenging situation in a way that makes us so proud. 

The COVID-19 (coronavirus) has disrupted people’s lives throughout China and yet Starbucks partners have risen to the occasion, acted with courage, and reinforced Starbucks mission and values through their actions. They are prioritizing the health and well-being of partners and customers. They are supporting government, local authorities and communities working to contain the virus. They have closed stores when necessary, secured masks and sanitizer to protect customers and partners, and they have enabled new ways of servicing customers through this period.

With the number of new cases in China slowing, we are seeing the early signs of a recovery in the region. As a result, the situation is improving throughout major parts of China. We now have 85 percent of stores open across China and continue to assess the ongoing impact. Over time, we will see additional communities recover, more customer occasions in our stores, and we will continue our focus on the well-being of our partners and customers. Meanwhile, our partners are doing what they love most – connecting with customers over a fantastic cup of Starbucks coffee. This is Starbucks resiliency at its best. 

In fact, just yesterday, we reopened the Shanghai Roastery and you can see for yourself the joy of our China partners as they are back serving their customers again. You can watch the message Belinda Wong, chairman and ceo of Starbucks China, shared from the Roastery on reopening day below.

Belinda and the entire China Leadership Team have been true servant leaders through this entire period, putting everything aside to ensure that partners and their families feel supported. As our Starbucks partners in China say, Be strong like coffee! 

With a global footprint, we are working in lockstep with Starbucks regional leaders to share preparedness guidelines and our learnings from China should they be needed. We are staying close to the situation in every single market through connections with local health officials and are prepared to take whatever actions necessary, market by market, to ensure the health and well-being of our partners and customers. I know many of you continue to have questions, so I would encourage you to take advantage of the resources and guidance available on the Partner Hub.

Partners are the heartbeat of Starbucks and will continue to be at the center of all decisions we make.

With great appreciation,

Kevin