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Introduction
Starbucks is making a decisive push to revive its in-office culture, telling corporate staff they must increase their time at headquarters starting this October. The company has announced new return-to-office requirements, relocation mandates for leaders, and a voluntary exit package for those unwilling to comply—all aimed at strengthening collaboration and speed in its corporate operations.
Details of the Announcement
In a letter to employees on Monday, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol stated that corporate staff will now be required to work in the office four days a week, up from the current three. The new policy takes effect in early October 2025.
Further, all “people leaders”—managers and senior staff—will be required to reside in either **Seattle** or **Toronto** within the next 12 months.
“This move is about re-establishing our in-office culture,” Niccol said. “We do our best work when we’re together. We share ideas more effectively, creatively solve hard problems, and move much faster.”
Relocation and Hiring Requirements
While current employees under these leaders won’t be forced to move, the company has signalled that all **future hires and internal transfers** for leadership roles must be based in Seattle or Toronto.
Employees who choose not to relocate will be eligible for a **one-time voluntary exit program**, which includes a cash payout.
Starbucks has around **16,000 corporate support employees** globally—though this number includes warehouse and roasting staff. The company has not disclosed how many current “people leaders” work remotely.
Broader Industry Context
Starbucks is the latest among major US employers to tighten return-to-office rules. Companies such as **Amazon**, **AT&T**, and even the **US federal government** have already mandated five-day office schedules in 2025, signalling a shift away from pandemic-era remote work flexibility.
Demand for fully remote roles remains high, but such positions are becoming more competitive and scarce.
CEO Relocation Background
Niccol himself wasn’t required to relocate when he was appointed CEO last year. At the time, Starbucks provided support to establish an office near his home in **Newport Beach, California**, and granted him access to a **corporate jet** for Seattle commutes.
However, since then, Niccol has purchased a home in Seattle and is now regularly present at the company’s headquarters, according to Starbucks spokesperson Lori Torgerson.