Charles EstherStarbucks is facing criticism from its workers after announcing a strict new uniform policy that bans grey and green shirts across its American locations.
The new guidelines, which are set to take effect on May 12, 2025, have sparked backlash, with many employees expressing frustration over the timing and impact of the policy change.
The company’s new dress code mandates that employees wear solid black shirts with khaki, black, or blue denim bottoms, aiming to enhance the visibility of the brand’s signature green aprons.
Starbucks argues that this change will create a more consistent customer experience and a streamlined in-store atmosphere.
However, workers argue that this policy imposes unnecessary restrictions and diverts attention from more pressing issues, such as staffing shortages and the need for guaranteed hours.
One of the most significant points of contention is the ban on grey and green shirts, which had previously been allowed under Starbucks’ more flexible dress code.
The move has left many employees feeling frustrated and upset, especially since the company had previously allowed workers to express themselves through their clothing choices.
In 2016, Starbucks expanded its dress code to include a broader range of colors, including grey and muted blue shirts.
The company also allowed employees to personalize their look with hair color and other small touches of individuality.
The new uniform policy has been met with criticism from Starbucks Workers United, a union representing workers in over 550 U.S. stores.
Union officials argue that the company should focus on addressing more critical issues within the workplace, such as understaffing, high turnover rates, and employees’ compensation.
Jasmine Leli, a union delegate, stated that enforcing a restrictive uniform policy without first addressing these fundamental concerns sends the wrong message to workers.
“Instead of focusing on the things that matter to us, like fair hours and adequate staffing, Starbucks is placing more emphasis on how we look,” Leli said in a statement.
In response to concerns about the new uniform policy, Starbucks announced that they would provide each employee with two branded shirts free of charge to help them meet the new requirements.
While this may ease some of the financial burden, employees argue that the company should be prioritizing issues like adequate pay and improved working conditions before rolling out additional dress code regulations.
For many workers, this new policy feels like a distraction from the bigger problems they face daily.
The change also raises questions about the overall impact of the new dress code on employees’ personal expression and comfort.
For baristas who have grown accustomed to wearing grey or green shirts, the restriction may feel like a step backward in terms of workplace autonomy.
The new uniform guidelines may also create extra pressure for workers who are already dealing with the stresses of long shifts and customer service challenges.
As the deadline for the policy’s implementation approaches, many Starbucks employees are voicing their concerns.
Workers are calling for a more thoughtful approach to uniform changes, one that takes into account the broader issues affecting employees’ day-to-day lives.
Some argue that Starbucks should have engaged in more open dialogue with employees and their representatives before making such significant changes to the dress code.
The backlash to Starbucks’ new uniform policy serves as a reminder that even small changes in company policy can have a significant impact on employee morale.
While the company may believe that a uniform overhaul is necessary for branding and consistency, workers are asking for more consideration of their needs and priorities before the company enforces such a change.
As the debate continues, Starbucks faces a challenge in balancing the desire for a cohesive brand image with the need to address the genuine concerns of its workforce.
The outcome of this situation will likely have lasting effects on the relationship between the company and its employees as they continue to navigate the complexities of working in the service industry.
