Starbucks has announced plans to hire 7,500 new baristas across the UK over the next five years, with a particular focus on the Midlands, north of England, Wales and Scotland.
The Seattle-based company said the recruitment drive is part of its expansion strategy, targeting further growth north of the M25. It comes as the firm continues a major turnaround under its boss, Brian Niccol, which saw dozens of UK coffeehouses closed last year.
Growth plans and current workforce
Last month, Niccol said the business is firmly in growth and eyeing further expansion after two years of menu simplification, staffing investments and a shake-up of operations aimed at improving service. In March, the company said it planned to open 500 new coffee shops across the country by 2031.
On Monday, Starbucks said its expansion will see a recruitment drive for new staff to join its current workforce of more than 18,000. The hiring spree will be particularly focused in the Midlands, north of England, Wales and Scotland.
Recruitment despite rising labour costs
The hiring plans come despite increases in labour costs for businesses. The Government confirmed at last month's Budget that the national minimum wage will increase by 3.9% in April next year.
Darren King, vice president and managing director of Starbucks UK, said: "We're proud to be creating thousands of new jobs across the UK over the next five years, bringing new opportunities to communities across the country as we continue to invest and grow here."
He added: "At the heart of our Back to Starbucks strategy is our ambition to create a place where people can build skills, grow their careers and feel part of a team. We're deeply focused on how we can help more young people into these positions, starting by making entry-level roles as accessible as possible. You don't need previous industry experience and we'll give you the training and support you need from day one."
Focus on young workers
Starbucks is a major employer of young people in the UK, with more than half of staff in company-operated stores under the age of 24. Research commissioned by the business found that 68% of 18–35-year-olds surveyed believe that retail and hospitality roles are perceived as temporary or "stopgap" work, amid efforts from Starbucks to provide career progression opportunities for staff.
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: "At a time when too many young people are struggling to get a foot on the career ladder, this investment is hugely welcome. Retail and hospitality are vital routes into the workplace, helping young people build skills, confidence and experience while offering genuine opportunities to progress."
