In a letter to U.S. partners, Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson reflects on the jury verdict in the murder trial of ex-police officer Derek Chauvin and Starbucks recommitment to the hard work ahead.

core/paragraph

The murder of George Floyd is tragic, painful and heartbreaking. Today’s jury verdict in the murder trial of ex-police officer Derek Chauvin will not soothe the intense grief, fatigue and frustration so many of our Black and African American partners are feeling. Let me say clearly to you: We see you. We hear you. And you are not alone. Your Starbucks family hurts with you.

And while today’s verdict is a step forward in accountability, until we confront the ugly realities and root causes of what led us to this day, our people, our nation, will always fall short of their full potential. We know there is so much more work to do to address systemic racism in our society and create the change needed to ensure everyone has an equal chance to succeed and thrive.

This is an important time for us to be here for one another, to share perspectives, to listen to each other, and to commit ourselves to a more equitable tomorrow. We cannot sit on the sidelines as individuals nor as a company.

At Starbucks, we will continue to advance our work by focusing on greater inclusion, diversity and equity as partners, investing in the communities we serve, and partnering with community organizations to help ensure Starbucks remains a welcoming place for all.

We’re going to call a Partner Open Forum this week. We want to create space to honor the life of and acknowledge the injustice to George Floyd. An injustice too familiar to too many. We will be here for our partners in the Twin Cities and for each and every BIPOC Starbucks partner as we try to understand the systemic wrongs that lead to inequality.

We are 400,000 partners in 33,000 communities. We have the power to make a positive difference.

Today's verdict and recommitting to the hard work ahead - Starbucks Stories

Stories to inspire and nurture the human spirit

Starbucks Stories

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/01/Photo_TBD-320x411_1-1.jpg

Starbucks Corporation

Today&#8217;s verdict and recommitting to the hard work ahead

In a letter to U.S. partners, Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson reflects on the jury verdict in the murder trial of ex-police officer Derek Chauvin and Starbucks recommitment to the hard work ahead.

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2020/11/SBX11022020-KJ-Ltr-Featured-Image.jpg

Today's verdict and recommitting to the hard work ahead

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2021/todays-verdict-and-recommitting-to-the-hard-work-ahead/

twitter:card

twitter:description

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2020/11/SBX11022020-KJ-Ltr-Featured-Image-1024x498.jpg

twitter:image

twitter:title

Today’s verdict and recommitting to the hard work ahead

Editor’s note: This is a story from our archive. For the latest, please visit <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/inclusion-diversity/">this page</a>

core/separator

In a letter to partners (employees), ceo Kevin Johnson outlines highlights from the company’s third Civil Rights Assessment conducted by Covington &amp; Burling LLP under leadership of former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, Jr.

We continue to pursue greater inclusion, diversity and equity at Starbucks. And as we do so, we are guided by three principles: intentionality, transparency and accountability. Being intentional and transparent is the foundation of accountability, and a meaningful part of our transparency is the regular assessment of our company's commitment to civil rights. It is an objective evaluation that 1) provides a factual and honest review of our journey in inclusion, diversity and equity, and 2) helps us track progress over time to drive truly lasting change. Each year since 2019, we have asked for and published this objective assessment, allowing us to reflect on our progress and, more importantly, focus on areas we can improve and advance this agenda.

Other companies may hesitate to allow an outside evaluator to dig into its practices, and then to make their findings public. But we work for a different kind of company. We act with courage, we challenge the status quo and we find new ways to grow—not just as a company but as partners. I’m proud that we undergo this assessment. All companies should.

<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2021/03/Starbucks-2021-Civil-Rights-Assessment.pdf">This year’s Civil Rights Assessment (CRA)</a>—once again, under the leadership of former United States Attorney General Eric Holder, Jr. and his law firm, Covington &amp; Burling LLP—will be published tomorrow and made easily available to all partners, customers and stakeholders. And while I encourage all partners to read the entire assessment, I want to share with you, in advance of its publication, a look at some of the key areas of progress and opportunity identified this year:&nbsp;&nbsp;

core/list

As it has in the past, the assessment provides an honest review of our journey and offers expert recommendations for how we can create an even more inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace. We’re proud of the progress we continue to make, and we know that there will be setbacks. We are, however, fully committed to lasting change. Some of the opportunities identified in this year’s assessment for Starbucks include:&nbsp;

You will see the CRA outlines an agreement we recently reached with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Through a voluntary process earlier this year, Starbucks and the EEOC resolved allegations (based on workforce data from 2007 through 2011)that we had not been providing equal access to promotion opportunities for store partners based on their race and national origin. While we do not know what prompted the EEOC allegations and our analysis of this data did not reveal systemic discrimination in promotions, we know we can improve transparency around promotion opportunities. The agreement is not only the right thing for partners, it has also led us to focus more resources on structural changes necessary to support partners’ career progressions and ensure that every partner has the opportunity to learn about promotion opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What does this mean for you? You will begin to see improvements to make more partners aware of and able to apply for open positions and to enhance accountability for leaders. Leaders will also be better equipped to help their partners navigate these opportunities. We now have tools and technology to help non-retail leaders track their team’s progress towards BIPOC representation goals and to give retail partner—from baristas through managers—seamless visibility to promotion opportunities. During your upcoming performance and development conversations with your manager, each of you will have an opportunity to learn about these new systems in place, while at the same time, having space for meaningful and supportive career conversations. The tools and technology are only as good as the behaviors of a truly inclusive culture.

I want to be very clear: racism and discrimination have no place at Starbucks. Not with customers. Not with partners. If you ever have a concern regarding racism or discrimination, we have several resources in place to support you, including your PRO partner, PRSC, or our Ethics &amp; Compliance team. You can also reach out to <a href="mailto:inclusion@starbucks.com">our I&amp;D team</a> if you have any questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Inclusion is at the very core of what we do at Starbucks. We inspire and nurture the human spirit. We create places of warmth and belonging, where everyone is welcome. As we continue to have these open conversations about diversity and equity, we discover time and again that inclusion lines up perfectly with our Mission and Values.&nbsp;&nbsp;

core/group

n a letter to partners (employees), ceo Kevin Johnson outlines highlights from the company’s third Civil Rights Assessment conducted by Covington & Burling LLP under leadership of former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, Jr.

Our Third Civil Rights Assessment

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2021/03/SBX20200324-CRA-FeatureHorizontal.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2021/our-third-civil-rights-assessment/

In a letter to partners (employees), ceo Kevin Johnson outlines highlights from the company’s third Civil Rights Assessment conducted by Covington & Burling LLP under leadership of former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, Jr.

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2021/03/SBX20200324-CRA-FeatureHorizontal-1024x498.jpg

Michelle Burns, svp of Global Coffee, Tea and Cocoa, shares new 2030 coffee sustainability goals to achieve carbon neutral green coffee and conserve water usage in green coffee processing by 50%.

It is no secret to any of us that climate change is making it harder and harder to grow coffee. We’ve seen the research. We’ve spoken to experts. We’ve witnessed it first-hand. And, even more so, we’ve heard directly from farmers. If we want to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all, if we want farmers to thrive, if we want coffee to continue to flow, then we must do more with a greater sense of urgency.

Last year, our ceo, Kevin Johnson, made a <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2020/message-from-starbucks-ceo-kevin-johnson-starbucks-new-sustainability-commitment/">bold aspiration for our company to be resource positive</a> – giving more than we take from the planet – and outlined ten-year goals to achieve 50% reduction in carbon, water and waste. With the entire company rallied behind this vision, the coffee team set off to build upon our long-standing programs and initiatives, research and development work, and partnerships with so many others in the industry, to outline a clear path forward for coffee to contribute to these goals, knowing it was equally important for farmers that we take on and solidify this work.

So today, in support of the company’s resource-positive aspiration, to support farmers and to protect the longevity of our supply chain, I’m excited to share our goals to achieve carbon neutral green coffee and conserve water usage in green coffee processing by 50%, both by 2030. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our carbon strategy will focus on three primary strategies:

For water conservation at origin, we will:

More details about our goals and roadmap can be found <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2021/starbucks-announces-coffee-specific-environmental-goals/">here</a>. But even more so, it’s important to re-emphasize this isn’t new for us. With coffee at our core and sustainability always a part of our philosophy, this has been a journey fifty years in the making led by the passion of our Starbucks leaders and partners who believe in our mission to inspire and nurture the human spirit. And it’s because of our strategic partners, our industry allies, our like-minded suppliers who have also made sustainability a priority and who have helped us, as well as the industry, to think bigger, hold ourselves accountable and reimagine what’s possible.

The journey is long from over, but together, the future is looking bright. We know we don’t have all the answers and much of the work ahead is uncharted territory. But we stand more firmly now than ever in our commitments and our continued work together to support farmers, their communities and our planet.

I also wanted to share with you how we continue to bring this great work to our customers and partners, as we know sustainability is also a meaningful topic for them. Last week, we launched a new, <a href="https://coffeeexperiences.starbucks.com/">immersive virtual experience of Hacienda Alsacia</a>, our coffee farm in Costa Rica. As the center of our research and development efforts, Hacienda Alsacia plays a pivotal role in testing new farming practices, tools and techniques as well as breeding more resilient tree varietals – work that has helped inform our sustainability strategies and will continue to play an important role moving forward. With the new virtual experience, people around the world can now get closer to how their coffee is grown and have a deeper appreciation for the many farmers who make it possible. I invite you to grab a cup of coffee and take a trip to the farm.

A Message from svp of Global Coffee, Tea and Cocoa on 2030 coffee sustainability goals - Starbucks Stories

A Message from svp of Global Coffee, Tea and Cocoa on 2030 coffee sustainability goals

Michelle Burns, svp of Global Coffee, Tea and Cocoa, shares new 2030 coffee sustainability goals to achieve carbon neutral green coffee and conserve water usage in green coffee processing by 50%.

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2021/03/SBX20200319-Coffee-FeatureHorizontal.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2021/a-message-from-svp-of-global-coffee-tea-and-cocoa-on-2030-coffee-sustainability-goals/

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2021/03/SBX20200319-Coffee-FeatureHorizontal-1024x498.jpg

Starbucks is committed to transparent and ongoing third-party audits and disclosures of our global social and environmental impact. Since 2001, we <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/responsibility/global-report">have proactively published</a> an annual update on our performance against key Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors. These summaries are audited by third parties and provide a fiscal year summary detailing what we have achieved to date, where we have more to do, and what is still to come. Beginning in 2021, Starbucks has committed to incorporate <a href="https://www.sasb.org/about/">The Sustainability Accounting Standards Board</a> (SASB) ESG reporting standards into our annual Global Environmental and Social Impact Report.

In addition to&nbsp;our&nbsp;annual Global Environmental and Social Impact Report, in 2019, Starbucks commissioned Covington &amp; Burling LLP, under the leadership of former Attorney General Eric Holder, to&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/01/Covington-Report-to-Starbucks-Jan-23-2019.pdf">conduct a comprehensive assessment</a>&nbsp;of Starbucks commitment to civil rights, equity, diversity and inclusion.&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2020/02/Starbucks-Civil-Rights-Assessment-2020-Update.pdf">In 2020</a>, we invited Attorney General Holder to conduct a follow up assessment&nbsp;and in 2021, we will share our third Civil Rights Assessment.&nbsp;

We also released a comprehensive&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2020/01/Starbucks-Environmental-Baseline-Report.pdf">Environmental Baseline Audit</a>&nbsp;conducted by Quantis in partnership with the World Wildlife Foundation in 2020.

Recognizing the importance of industry-wide ESG surveys, since 2001, Starbucks has participated in the <a href="https://www.spglobal.com/esg/csa/djsi-csa-annual-review-2020">Dow Jones Sustainability Index</a>. Since 2007, Starbucks self-disclosed information to the <a href="https://www.worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/">Ethisphere Institute</a> and has been consistently recognized as one of the most world’s ethical companies.

Starbucks Commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance Disclosures - Starbucks Stories

Starbucks Commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance Disclosures

Starbucks is committed to transparent and ongoing third-party audits and disclosures of our global social and environmental impact.

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/01/Spring_logo_low-res.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2021/starbucks-commitment-to-environmental-social-and-governance-disclosures/

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/01/Spring_logo_low-res-1024x595.jpg

Kevin Johnson shares his thoughts on the historic day and this week’s events in American Democracy.

I was just 4 years old when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. accepted the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway. I can’t say I recall his speech at that young age, but today, his words of impressive moral clarity and certitude give me hope during this difficult time.

“Unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word,” he told the audience gathered for that prize ceremony.

It is exceptionally important that we honor Dr. King’s message of hope, love, and non-violence on the same week that we celebrate the American democratic rite of a transition of power to a new presidential administration. And not just a new administration; one that includes the first woman, and first Black and South Asian woman, to serve as Vice President. What a meaningful time in our nation’s history.

We look forward to working with President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris to find ways to support partners and strengthen our communities.

And I hope that we all find Dr. King’s words — of “truth and unconditional love” — factoring into our daily interactions with one another, even if in ways that seem small.

Not just on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, but every day, I personally pledge to listen, lift up others’ voices, and search for that truth and unconditional love that, I agree, will have the “final word.”

Thank you all for your dedication to uplifting others.

A letter from Starbucks ceo on Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Starbucks Stories

A letter from Starbucks ceo on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson shares his thoughts on the historic day and this week’s events in American Democracy.

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2021/a-letter-from-starbucks-ceo-on-martin-luther-king-jr-day/

In an internal virtual open forum today with over 2,000 Starbucks partners (employees), Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson shared the following message after which emotional stories and perspectives were shared by partners around the country….

Let me begin by sharing with you what I’m feeling…

I am saddened and dismayed by the disruption to American democracy in our nation’s capital.

The divisiveness in our country is becoming more extreme – people are acting out in more destructive and violent ways – and it seems to have created a negative spiral in our society.

Democracy was created knowing that people have different views. It is important to have a system that gives every citizen a voice and, hopefully, a constructive way to listen to diverse perspectives and govern a nation that unites people around common cause.

As a company, we condemn all acts of violence and expressions of hate. This is not a discussion about partisan differences, it’s not about red or blue, but rather a moment to reflect on what it means to come together as Starbucks partners, as we have done in the past, and make a positive contribution at a time when humanity needs some hope, optimism, and civility – humanity needs some inspiration and nurturing.

So I ask myself, what can I do to make a positive difference? What can Starbucks do to make a positive difference?

Society is in a fragile state. Humanity is in a fragile state. And as someone who believes in the goodness of people, and as a Starbucks partner who believes that we, together, have something special to offer, I believe this is one of those important opportunities for us to show up in a positive way – not just as Starbucks partners but as individuals in this shared society – to live Our Mission, to listen to one another, to help unite our communities and our country.

This isn’t partisan. This is about the human spirit.

It’s more important than ever to inspire and nurture the human spirit and uplift one another – to care for one another.

And when I look at it through that lens, I can acknowledge the reality of the situation – acknowledge my feeling of sadness – AND at the same time bring an attitude of hope and optimism that we can play an important role in creating an upward spiral – one that is based on the values we stand for and the mission that connects us all.

Caring for one another as partners is where it begins…

Starbucks ceo: A response to the disruption to American democracy - Starbucks Stories

Starbucks ceo: A response to the disruption to American democracy

In an internal virtual open forum today with over 2,000 Starbucks partners (employees), Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson shared the following message.

Starbucks CEO: A response to the disruption to American democracy

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2021/starbucks-ceo-a-response-to-the-disruption-to-american-democracy/

A letter from Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson to Congress

Dear Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi and Leader McCarthy,

Over the course of the past 11 months, all of humanity has united behind our common cause to contain and mitigate the COVID-19 virus. I have found, in our collective resilience and determination, a lot to be optimistic about. However, as we look to the future, it’s clear that this global pandemic has presented the world and its leaders with unprecedented challenges that must be addressed both in the near- and long-term.

People around the world and in every American community are struggling with hardships caused, exacerbated, or simply made more visible by the pandemic. We share in the hope that the COVID-19 vaccines bring, but we know that until vaccines are broadly distributed in 2021, American families and small businesses will continue to face insurmountable hardships. Navigating this pandemic is intertwined with ensuring American prosperity; both must be addressed in tandem.&nbsp;

This moment will require all leaders—from governments, businesses and communities—to come together to help address a common cause, just as we have done many times throughout American history. Starbucks urges Congress to take immediate bipartisan action to pass new COVID relief legislation to address the urgent needs in our communities, especially for the millions of Americans out of work, small businesses facing economic uncertainty and the public health needs of state and local governments on the front lines of the pandemic.

At Starbucks, we will continue to navigate this pandemic as we have since January, guided by three principles: 1) prioritizing the health and well-being of our partners (we refer to all Starbucks employees as “partners”) and customers; 2) playing a constructive role in supporting health and government officials as they work to mitigate the spread of this virus and 3) showing up in positive and responsible ways to serve our communities.

I have been awed and inspired by the way my Starbucks partners have shown up for their communities in the face of extraordinary circumstances. In return, we have taken action to support our partners because they are the heartbeat of our company. We provided catastrophe pay and service pay for partners whose stores were closed due to the pandemic and those unable to work due to effects of COVID, without any involuntary layoffs. We also recently shared one of our biggest wage investments of at least a 10 percent pay increase for our partners, all of whom already earn more than the minimum wage. With these investments, more than 30 percent of our U.S. retail partners are currently at or above $15/hour and we continue on our path to ensure all U.S. partners will be making at or above $15/hour within the coming two to three years. And as we always do, we will continue explore what more we can do to provide compensation and benefits in support of our partners.

Starbucks will also continue supporting customers and the communities we serve. Since the onset of COVID-19, Starbucks has remained close to national, state and local health officials to ensure our business decisions are anchored to and guided by facts and science. The <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2020/starbucks-to-accelerate-expansion-of-drive-thru-pickup-and-curbside-pickup/">store changes we have made</a> prioritize customer safety while providing familiar experiences. The nearly 2 million cups of coffee we have provided to front-line healthcare workers and first-responders—as well as the 5 million meals we have donated through our FoodShare program and the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/the-starbucks-foundation-supporting-community-response-and-resilience-during-covid-19/">$9 million The Starbucks Foundation has donated</a> to COVID-19 relief efforts—have, I hope, set an example of putting people above profit.

Starbucks remains committed to the work ahead. We stand ready to partner with government officials at all levels to address the next phase of this pandemic recovery and serve as a beacon of warmth and welcome for all communities. Together, we have the opportunity to inspire the human spirit and demonstrate the resilience and courage that highlight the best of our people – and the best of our country.&nbsp;

Thank you for your work on behalf of American families, businesses and communities.

Supporting Americans in unprecedented times - Starbucks Stories

Supporting Americans in unprecedented times

A letter from Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson to Congress.

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/01/Starbucks_logo_low_res-1.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/supporting-americans-in-unprecedented-times/

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/09/Social-Board-Logo-1024x613.jpg

We commit to be upstanders, not bystanders, as we continue to listen, learn and act to better serve our communities.

Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone, our partners, our customers and our communities. Our relationships with those who keep our stores safe, including law enforcement, are guided by that principle. We also understand that as a company with stores in neighborhoods across our country, we have a responsibility and opportunity to do more to promote safe and equitable communities. That is why we commit to the following:

Our role in promoting safe and equitable communities - Starbucks Stories

Our role in promoting safe and equitable communities

We commit to be upstanders, not bystanders, as we continue to listen, learn and act to better serve our communities.

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/our-role-in-promoting-safe-and-equitable-communities/

Our global commitment to fundamental human rights as a core component of the way we do business and how we engage our partners (employees), our business partners, and our customers and communities.

Message from Kevin Johnson

At Starbucks, we’ve always been about more than just the coffee. We are about humanity. It is a fundamental belief at the heart of <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/about-us/company-information/mission-statement">Our Mission</a>: to inspire and nurture the human spirit — one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.

It is not only a business imperative, but it is our responsibility to create a culture of warmth and inclusion where everyone is welcome, respected and valued. This Global Human Rights Statement is a demonstration of that commitment to have a positive impact on the lives of all the people we touch — from the fields where our coffee is grown, to the local communities we serve and the planet that we all share.

Kevin Johnson president and chief executive officer member of Starbucks Board of Directors

Standards and Governance

We respect the human rights of individuals and communities impacted by &nbsp;our operations and products, and we commit to respect the principles of the: <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/documents/publications/guidingprinciplesbusinesshr_en.pdf">UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights</a>; <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/responsibility/learn-more/un-global-compact">UN Global Compact</a>; <a href="https://www.oecd.org/daf/inv/mne/48004323.pdf">OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises</a>; <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/Documents/Publications/FactSheet2Rev.1en.pdf">International Bill of Rights</a>; <a href="https://www.ilo.org/declaration/lang--en/index.htm">ILO Core Labor Standards</a>; <a href="https://www2.unwomen.org/-/media/field%20office%20eseasia/docs/publications/2016/05/wep-booklet-en.pdf?la=en&amp;vs=5928">Women’s Empowerment Principles</a>; <a href="https://d306pr3pise04h.cloudfront.net/docs/issues_doc%2Fhuman_rights%2FCRBP%2FChildrens_Rights_and_Business_Principles.pdf">Children’s Rights and Business Principles</a>, and <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/issues/environment/srenvironment/pages/frameworkprinciplesreport.aspx">Framework Principles on Human Rights and the Environment</a>.

At Starbucks, each of us is entrusted to make decisions that impact our relationships with each other, our customers, our Business Partners and our communities. This Global Human Rights Statement is applicable to all Starbucks Partners, and we extend the expectations detailed in this statement to suppliers throughout our Supply Chain. We are also committed to working with our Business Partners to meet the expectations detailed in this statement in every market we serve.

It is one of Starbucks core values that we deliver our very best in everything we do, including holding ourselves accountable for results. Business units throughout the organization have oversight for compliance with various aspects of our Global Human Rights Statement and practices and report their results to a centralized system managed by the Ethics and Compliance business unit.

Starbucks <a href="https://globalassets.starbucks.com/assets/783F1B6C9BBA4DB2B8FC9465CA65658F.pdf">Audit and Compliance Committee</a>, a committee of Starbucks Board of Directors, oversees the Company's enterprise risk management practices, internal and external audit process and the system of internal controls. The Audit and Compliance Committee receives updates from management and the internal auditor on enterprise risk management practices and internal audits which may include the operation of our ethical sourcing programs and standards that support our Global Human Rights Statement.

Our company’s pursuit of good is an ongoing effort. Aligned with this belief, &nbsp;we are committed to ongoing human rights due diligence and assessing and reporting our continuous improvement transparently through publicly available documents, such as our <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/responsibility/global-report">Global Social Impact Reports</a>, our <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/an-update-on-starbucks-civil-rights-assessment/">Civil Rights Assessments</a> and our <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2020/01/Starbucks-Environmental-Baseline-Report.pdf">Environmental Impact Analysis</a>.

For the purposes of this policy, we use the following definitions:

Starbucks respects the inherent dignity of all persons and seeks to enable Partners to do their best work by embracing and valuing the unique combination of talents, experiences and perspectives of each partner.

&nbsp;Our commitment to respect the human and civil rights of our Partners applies across the world — whether in our Starbucks Support Center (i.e., headquarters) or in Starbucks company-operated retail stores. This commitment is communicated with and embedded in our training materials and manuals and <a href="https://livingourvalues.starbucks.com/en-us/">Starbucks Standards of Business Conduct</a>.

We adhere to <a href="https://www.ilo.org/declaration/lang--en/index.htm">ILO Core Labor Standards</a>, including the rights to non-discrimination, equal pay for equal work, freedom of association, participation in collective bargaining and just and favorable conditions of work, such as ensuring the health and safety of our Partners.

We respect&nbsp;our Partners’&nbsp;right to privacy, which is outlined in our <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/about-us/company-information/online-policies/privacy-policy">Privacy Statement</a>. Our approach to privacy and data protection is governed by the recognized principles of data minimization, limited collection and limited use, among other key areas. Our Privacy Statement describes what information we collect, how we use it, how and when it may be shared, and the rights and choices Partners have with respect to their personal information.

All Partners are responsible for supporting human rights in the work environment, which includes understanding Starbucks Global Human Rights Statement concerning fundamental human rights and upholding the provisions of these rights in the workplace. We also expect our Partners to raise awareness of any behaviors or business situations involving Starbucks that may compromise the company’s values around the provision of fundamental human rights and report potential violations of Starbucks Global Human Rights Statement.

Our Customers and Communities

We are dedicated to creating a culture of warmth and belonging, where everyone is welcome. We respect our customers’ human and civil rights and seek to ensure their experience at Starbucks reflects our values.

Our commitment to all customers is posted in our stores and online via the <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/responsibility/learn-more/policies/third-place">Third Place Policy</a>, and this commitment includes respect for our customers’ right to non-discrimination.

Our customers’ right to privacy is governed by our Global Privacy Principles, which is outlined in our <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/about-us/company-information/online-policies/privacy-policy">Privacy Statement</a>. Our approach to privacy and data protection is governed by the recognized principles of data minimization, limited collection and limited use, among other key areas. Our Privacy Statement describes what information we collect, how we use it, how and when it may be shared, and the rights and choices customers have with respect to their personal information.

We are also committed to serving our communities, including people with disabilities. Our dedication to accessibility can be found in the <a href="https://news.starbucks.com/views/Starbucks-Commitment-to-Access-and-Disability-Inclusion">Starbucks Commitment to Access and Disability Inclusion</a>.

Our ethical sourcing programs integrate respect for human rights throughout&nbsp;our Supply Chain, addressing rights such as: the right to non-discrimination; the right to be free from forced and child labor; the right to association; and the right to just and favorable working conditions, including ensuring the health and safety of workers. As part of our commitment, we respect the rights of vulnerable groups, such as women, migrant, seasonal and temporary workers, as well as the rights of indigenous communities. We are also committed to pursuing sustainable livelihoods within our Supply Chain to achieve a decent standard of living.

We require all of our suppliers to pledge compliance with our <a href="https://content-prod-live.cert.starbucks.com/binary/v2/asset/137-71872.pdf">Supplier Code of Conduct</a>, and we work to integrate our human rights commitment throughout our ethical sourcing programs and standards, which include: <a href="https://www.scsglobalservices.com/services/starbucks-cafe-practices">C.A.F.E. Practices</a>; <a href="https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/business/resource-item/rainforest-alliance-sustainable-agriculture-standard/">Third party certifications for tea, including Rainforest Alliance</a>; <a href="https://www.scsglobalservices.com/services/starbucks-cocoa-practices">Cocoa Practices</a>; <a href="https://globalassets.starbucks.com/assets/182efb6d01da495fac3b0d2c06a8e50f.pdf">Manufactured Goods and Services Standards</a>; and <a href="https://globalassets.starbucks.com/assets/f341d6b613c640958368bd3e91be13aa.pdf">Conflict Minerals Policy Statement</a>. Our C.A.F.E. Practices includes <a href="https://cdn.scsglobalservices.com/files/program_documents/C.A.F.E.%20Practices%20Terms%20and%20Conditions_v3%207_ENG_Oct2019.pdf">terms and conditions</a> for verifying ethically sourced coffee, including how we remediate zero tolerance instances; <a href="https://cdn.scsglobalservices.com/files/program_documents/cafe_man_verinsops_v5_3_102817.pdf">operating standards and guidelines</a> for third-party verifiers; and a commitment to third-party <a href="https://www.conservation.org/corporate-engagements/starbucks">impact assessments</a> and reporting. In addition to our Supply Chain, these same ethical sourcing programs and standards apply to our company-operated farm, roasting plants, distribution centers and juicery.

In line with our value to hold ourselves accountable for results, we engage in third-party assessments of our Supply Chain. When we identify suppliers that have not met our ethical sourcing standards, it is our philosophy of transparency, continuous improvement and shared responsibility to work with those suppliers to develop corrective action plans and implement these plans based on a mutually agreed schedule toward resolution. We also pursue certifications where appropriate, such as for <a href="https://globalassets.starbucks.com/assets/0c1557af08a04ac1b45dd6bcc84c3c4b.pdf">palm oil</a> and <a href="https://globalassets.starbucks.com/assets/f341d6b613c640958368bd3e91be13aa.pdf">conflict minerals</a>.

We believe our future and our ability to have healthy communities and meaningful space for connection depends on preserving the environment around us. To be planet positive is to be people positive: it’s our ambition to advance environmental justice by aligning our <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2020/message-from-starbucks-ceo-kevin-johnson-starbucks-new-sustainability-commitment">sustainability commitment</a> with our human rights commitment. We recognize and are committed to respecting the rights to land, water and natural resources. One way we are doing this is to work with farmers to conserve water used for coffee processing, protect rivers and streams and ensure workers have access to clean drinking water.

We respect the crucial work done by <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/issues/srhrdefenders/pages/defender.aspx">Human Rights Defenders</a> who work individually or with others to promote or protect human rights. We value their input, as we value the input of all of our stakeholders, and we neither tolerate nor contribute to threats, intimidation and attacks against Human Rights Defenders. We expect our Supply Chain to act accordingly as well.

We strive to work with Business Partners that both share and reflect <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/about-us/company-information/mission-statement">Our Mission and Values</a>.&nbsp;We choose Business Partners who conduct business in a responsible and ethical manner, respect the rights of individuals and help protect the environment and the people impacted by their business actions. As part of ongoing due diligence, our Global Security and Resilience team routinely evaluates potential human rights risks in the regions where our Business Partners operate.

In support of increasing our collective impact, we make our Global Human Rights Statement available to Business Partners. We expect them to have shared expectations of what is detailed in this statement and adopt similar polices and commitments of their own, including participating in effective, operational-level grievance mechanisms for the individuals and communities who may be adversely impacted. Starbucks is also committed to working with our Business Partners to meet the expectations detailed in this statement in every market we serve.

Responding to Grievances

We are committed to providing safe, confidential and accessible grievance channels to all individuals impacted by our operations and products. Starbucks does not tolerate retaliation against or the victimization of anyone who raises concerns or questions regarding a potential violation of our Global Human Rights Statement.

We are committed to providing remedy in cases where we may have caused or contributed to an adverse human rights impact across our value chain. As part of this commitment, we will not obstruct access to other remedies and we will work with our Supply Chain and Business Partners to remedy adverse impacts that we are directly linked to. In line with our value of continuous improvement, Starbucks is committed to incorporating the lessons we learn from instances where we may have caused or contributed to harm and communicating the changes we introduce to prevent repeating harms.

Our <a href="https://businessconduct.eawebline.com/">Ethics and Compliance Helpline</a>, which can be accessed anytime online or &nbsp;by phone, is a resource to ask questions or raise concerns. Available in multiple languages, and accessible locally in many geographies, Partners or individuals that experience or see conduct that is inconsistent with our Global Human Rights Statement may use our Ethics and Compliance Helpline to raise concerns. Reported concerns specifically related to human rights are escalated to the appropriate team at Starbucks.

Global Human Rights Statement - Starbucks Stories

Our global commitment to fundamental human rights as a core component of the way we do business and how we engage our partners our business partners, and our customers and communities.

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2019/09/Social-Board-Logo.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/global-human-rights-statement/

Global Human Rights Statement

A letter to Starbucks partners from Kevin Johnson, Starbucks ceo and president

For nearly 50 years, Starbucks has inspired and nurtured the human spirit – one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time. We are purpose-driven and demonstrate our values each day as we work to create a warm and welcoming experience for customers in our stores.

With a historic U.S. election upon us, I am reminded that it is our shared Mission and Values that unite us at Starbucks with over 400,000 partners around the world proudly wearing the green apron representing all perspectives, genders, races, religions and personal political views.

It is the moments of connection we have with one another and our customers in our stores that define the Starbucks Experience. And, as many will look to Starbucks as a place of familiarity and respite in the days ahead, I want to share with you a few things top of mind for me.

First, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring our stores provide that <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2018/use-of-the-third-place-policy/">warm and welcoming Third Place</a>, free of disruptive, intolerant and discriminatory behavior, and encourage us all to demonstrate respect for another’s differences, experiences and emotions with kindness and support. We will focus on the safety of our partners and customers above all else.

Second, building on our long legacy of encouraging our partners to <a href="https://www.fuelourdemocracy.com/">use their voice and vote</a>, we have joined Civic Alliance as well as hundreds of companies this year to advocate for a <a href="https://www.civicalliance.com/100">safe and accessible election</a>. Every voice will be heard, and I have great confidence in the integrity of our election process.

Finally, this election is certainly an important one and will likely require patience as all votes are counted. The results may not be known overnight. If this is the case, I encourage you to trust in the process and be patient.

For tomorrow, after your ballot is in, make a French Press of your favorite coffee and sip slowly – knowing the election process will work and it may take some time. Regardless of the outcome, or how long it will take to get there, one thing is certain: We will continue to live up to our values and stand united to leave a positive imprint on the communities we serve.

Thank you for continuing to uplift one another and those you serve. You are ALL the heartbeat of Starbucks. I am proud to be your partner.

Letter from the ceo: Thoughts ahead of the 2020 U.S. election - Starbucks Stories

Letter from the ceo: Thoughts ahead of the 2020 U.S. election

Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson reflects on the shared Mission and Values that unite more than 400,000 partners around the world proudly wearing the green apron, representing all perspectives, genders, races, religions and personal political views.

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/letter-from-the-ceo-thoughts-ahead-of-the-2020-us-election/

In a letter to partners (employees), Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson outlines further steps the company will take to advance inclusion, diversity and equity on behalf of its partners and the communities it serves.

As we continue together on our journey to advance racial and social equity on behalf of our partners and the communities we serve, I keep coming back to three principles: intention, transparency and accountability.

That is, as we consider the role and responsibility of Starbucks, as a company, to lead by example in areas of inclusion, diversity, and equity, we will: 1) be intentional about the actions we take and how they line up with our Mission and Values, 2) commit to transparency with all stakeholders about our thinking and our goals, and 3) hold ourselves accountable.

Those are the same three principles we outlined for ourselves over two years ago in Philadelphia that led to the closing of our 8,000 company-owned stores for a day of anti-bias training. Those principles further led to our partnership with Arizona State University in developing our <a href="https://tobewelcoming.com/">To Be Welcoming</a> curriculum, to our <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/an-update-on-starbucks-civil-rights-assessment/">civil rights assessment</a> led by former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder and a bold decision to make that assessment public, and our success in achieving <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/how-starbucks-is-addressing-the-pay-gap/">gender and race pay equity</a> in the U.S.

In the partner <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2020/a-message-from-starbucks-ceo-to-partners-and-customers-on-civic-responsibility/">letter</a> I sent at the end of August, I outlined critical questions I believe each of us ought to be asking ourselves in this pivotal societal moment.&nbsp;

We are well underway with efforts to help answer the question about our roles and responsibilities as individuals, with action to <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2020/fuel-our-democracy-starbucks-helps-partners-customers-prepare-to-vote/">reduce barriers to voting</a> for those who wear the green apron as well as for our customers.

Today, I’m pleased to tell you about several new actions Starbucks will be taking as we continue our journey and step up our efforts.

As we discuss inclusion, diversity and equity, we discover time and again that these topics are foundational to our Starbucks Mission and Values. Of course, they are. The very concept of the Third Place embodies inclusion – creating a place of warmth and belonging, where everyone is welcome. It’s what we mean when we talk about connecting with transparency, dignity and respect.

I believe our Mission and Values are what have made, and continue to make, Starbucks an enduring company. We share a purpose that transcends the pursuit of profit and that will carry us forward as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Starbucks next year.&nbsp;

Advancing Starbucks Culture of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity

We know that a more inclusive environment will create a flywheel that leads to greater diversity, and thereby greater equity and opportunity for all. Greater diversity enables us to better fulfill our mission. We have already taken action on many of the recommendations that resulted from our Civil Rights Assessment but, while we have made progress in many areas, we know that there is still more work to be done.

Today, we are outlining additional actions we will take on our journey. Each of the actions lines up with our Mission and Values, and so we know they are not just fleeting initiatives, but rather woven into the fabric of Starbucks. And I ask you to be engaged in this journey, knowing this requires long-term thinking that is backed up by the daily, sustained work that we are committed to do. &nbsp;As a part of these actions:

Supporting the resilience of the communities we serve

When we talk about using Starbucks “scale for good,” we mean that every business has the potential to promote equity in the community it serves; and since Starbucks serves more than 30,000 communities, we have the potential – and yes, responsibility – to promote equity on a larger scale than some other businesses.

I continue to be impressed and awed by the dedication and resilience of all partners who wear the green apron, especially now, when the communities we serve need the comfort, familiarity and safety that Starbucks provides. Thank you for all you do.

We have a responsibility to build bridges and create environments where all are welcome. Our journey continues as we are guided by intentionality, transparency and accountability.

In a letter to partners (employees), Starbucks ceo Kevin Johnson outlines further steps the company will take to advance inclusion, diversity and equity.

Starbucks role and responsibility in advancing racial and social equity

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2020/09/SBX20201008-RacialEquity-Feature.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/starbucks-role-and-responsibility-in-advancing-racial-and-social-equity/

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/2020/09/SBX20201008-RacialEquity-Feature-1024x498.jpg

An open letter from Starbucks Chief Sustainability Officer, Michael Kobori, shared with Starbucks partners in support of Climate Week.

We have felt the immediate impact of climate change across the world this year – from the west coast of the U.S. engulfed by fires and an apocalyptic orange sky, to the floods in Asia, and a record-breaking Atlantic storm season. Not even the northern-most point of our planet was spared, with 100-degree temperatures recorded in the Arctic. At this point, the climate crisis is not something that will happen in the future; it is upon us today.

At Starbucks, we also realize the climate crisis is inextricably intertwined with the other historic crises we are grappling with, among them: the global pandemic, a recession, and systemic racism. 

At the beginning of 2020, Starbucks announced a bold aspiration to become resource-positive, storing more carbon than we emit, providing more clean freshwater than we use, and eliminating waste. And we set targets to cut our carbon, water, and waste footprints in half by 2030.

Nine months on, sobered by what we have experienced this year, we realize we need to deepen that commitment and recognize how it is interlinked with our people-focused mission---to inspire and nurture the human spirit. We have taken the following actions:

These actions are a step in the right direction. But we all know that we need to do more and do it faster if we are to create a more sustainable, just, and prosperous world that is people and planet positive.

I look forward to your engagement and support as we address this challenge and opportunity of our lifetime.

Reaffirming Starbucks commitment to a resource-positive future - Starbucks Stories

Reaffirming Starbucks commitment to a resource-positive future