Starbucks has announced plans to recruit 7,500 new baristas across the UK over the next five years as part of a major expansion and transformation at the coffee chain.
The Seattle-headquartered company confirmed on Monday that the hiring drive will complement its existing UK workforce of more than 18,000. The recruitment push will focus particularly on the Midlands, northern England, Wales and Scotland, as the business pursues growth beyond the M25.
Turnaround and growth strategy
The expansion comes as the firm navigates a turnaround under chief executive Brian Niccol, which saw the closure of dozens of UK outlets last year. Niccol revealed last month that the business is positioned for growth and pursuing further expansion following two years of menu streamlining, workforce investment and operational restructuring aimed at enhancing customer service.
In March, the company announced intentions to open 500 new coffee shops nationwide by 2031. The latest recruitment campaign forms part of that broader growth plan.
Recruitment despite rising costs
The hiring strategy is being pursued despite rising labour costs for businesses. The Government announced at last month's Budget that the national minimum wage will rise 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.
"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 remains one of the UK's most significant employers of young people, with over half of its workforce in company-operated stores aged under 24.
The announcement coincides with research commissioned by the firm revealing that 68% of 18–35-year-olds surveyed consider retail and hospitality positions to be temporary or "stopgap" work. Starbucks is stepping up efforts to offer genuine career advancement opportunities for its employees.
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."
