Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol was promised the ability to work remotely when brought in from Chipotle. Company employees won't have the same luxury in 2026.

However, he also offered a way out. Niccol noted that Starbucks corporate workers have the option for a "one-time voluntary exit program with a cash payment" of undisclosed value if they wish to leave the company in response to the return-to-office mandate.