Starbucks (SBUX) Ties Part of Tech Bonuses to AI Usage

Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) is one of the 10 Best American Stocks to Buy and Hold for the Next Decade.

On May 28, 2026, Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) was reported to be tying part of most tech workers’ bonuses to AI usage, according to Bloomberg’s Daniela Sirtori. The report said one quarter of bonuses paid to tech staff will be linked to department-wide goals that include AI adoption, as Starbucks looks to improve efficiency.

On the same day, Erin Silvoy, SVP, Global Marketing and Channel Development at Starbucks, said in a company blog post that U.S. coffeehouses are seeing more customer visits in the afternoon and evening. Silvoy said the strongest gains are between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., with traffic growth outpacing the rest of the afternoon.

Starbucks (SBUX) Ties Part of Tech Bonuses to AI Usage

In a regulatory filing, Starbucks said its Board approved further actions under its “Back to Starbucks” strategy on May 13, 2026. The company said the plan is focused on revitalizing coffeehouses, enhancing the customer experience, and pursuing $2 billion in cost savings. Starbucks expects approximately $400 million of restructuring charges, including about $280 million in non-cash charges and $120 million in cash charges primarily tied to employee separation benefits.

Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX) operates as a roaster, marketer, and retailer of coffee internationally.

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