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Starbucks is taking several actions to protect the health and well-being of our partners (employees) and customers and to control the spread of COVID-19. All decisions are grounded in partner and customer care and safety, based on facts and science, and communicated with transparency. Read below for an at-a-glance overview.

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Your Starbucks Experience may look different as we navigate this dynamic situation community-by-community and store-by-store. Our commitment to you is that we will continue to make proactive decisions for our partners and the people we serve.

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Starbucks is offering support with comprehensive care to all our store partners including a recently announced wage increase, mental health benefits and paid time for sick days and family care.

While stores across the country continue to support communities at local levels, we have assembled the biggest, most comprehensive donation program in the history of Starbucks Canada to support Canadians across the country in three areas: first responders and front-line workers; access to food; and support for the most vulnerable Canadians.

Thanking front-line responders: The Starbucks Foundation donated $100,000 to COVID-19 fundraising drives set up by hospital foundations in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. And, to say thank you, Starbucks offered <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-partners-covid-19-front-line-responders/">free brewed coffee (hot or iced) to all front-line responders</a> from March until May 2020. To date, our partners have served <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/1-million-cups-of-free-coffee-served-to-front-line-responders/">more than one million cups of free coffee </a>to first responders and front-line healthcare workers across Canada and the U.S.

Helping vulnerable Canadians: $100,000 from The Starbucks Foundation went to <a href="https://www.unitedway.ca/">United Way Centraide</a>’s COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund. The donation will help the United Way accomplish its priorities: to ensure people in self-isolation have basic needs, such as food and supplies; to give support to seniors in isolation; and to ensure mental health services are available to vulnerable Canadians.

Supporting food banks: Starbucks Canada and The Starbucks Foundation donated <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-donates-over-1-million-to-help-growing-food-crisis/">over $1 million in food and financial support</a> to help the complex changing realities of food banks and community outreach organizations during COVID-19. This includes helping them shift their operational needs and providing drivers from Starbucks Canada’s foodservice distributor GFS (Gordon Food Service) to deliver food to those most in need.

Neighbourhood Grants: Throughout the pandemic, the Starbucks Foundation <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/the-starbucks-foundation-invests-145k-in-grants-to-support-local-communities-across-canada/">has been making rounds of donations</a> to hundreds of organizations across Canada, and is currently reviewing a record number of nominations made by stores in the latest round. These grants were informed and inspired by Starbucks partners who highlighted the causes and organizations uplifting their communities during COVID-19. In Canada, we heard from our partners about how hunger relief, supporting families and children, and addressing homelessness are top of mind. Additionally, Starbucks partners are volunteering their time and making their own financial donations to local charities across the country.

Starbucks is taking several actions to protect the health and well-being of our partners (employees) and customers and to control the spread of COVID-19. Here’s what you need to know.

At a Glance: What Customers Need to Know about Starbucks Response to COVID-19

Starbucks Canada

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At a Glance: Our Response to COVID-19

Starbucks also projects nearly $3 billion will be loaded onto Starbucks Cards this holiday season

As customers finalize their holiday shopping, Starbucks anticipates the busiest day for purchases of Starbucks Cards on December 23, citing the perennial popularity of gift cards as one of the most popular gifts during the holiday season. Last year, more than 46 million Starbucks Cards, which includes both physical and digital cards, were purchased in the U.S. and Canada during the holiday season. Starbucks projects that nearly $3 billion will be loaded onto Starbucks Cards from October to December this year. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“For more than 20 years, Starbucks Cards have made the perfect gift for loved ones during the holiday season, and we’re on track for another record performance of Starbucks Card sales. We are predicting that December 23 will be our busiest day of the year for Starbucks Card sales as customers finalize their holiday gifting,” said Starbucks chief marketing officer Brady Brewer.

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According to the <a href="https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/thanksgiving-weekend-see-more-holiday-shoppers-last-year-and-consumers">National Retail Federation</a>, 46% of shoppers plan to buy gift cards this holiday season, making it the second most popular gift. Moreover, gift card sales are expected to total $28.1 billion this holiday season as shoppers plan to buy three or four cards, spending an average of $48.92 per card.

Starbucks first gift cards debuted in stores in November 2001, and although gift cards had been available at Starbucks since 1994 as an alternative to paper gift certificates, Starbucks was among the first major retailers to offer a reloadable card. In 2001, Starbucks Cards became one of the most popular holiday gifts of the season, selling nearly 200,000 in the first week alone. For just a few dollars, customers could give a meaningful gift to loved ones, and the cards helped spread the word about Starbucks as its number of stores grew from more than 4,700 in 2001 to more than 33,000 stores today.

More than 1,500 Starbucks Card designs have been released over the 20 years of the program. Today, Starbucks Cards are available in a variety of designs in both physical and digital formats and can be loaded with $5 to $100. Physical Starbucks Cards are available year-round in dozens of designs at Starbucks stores in more than 40 countries around the world. They are also available in more than 100,000 locations outside Starbucks stores, including grocery stores and other retailers.

Starbucks eGift Cards are available for purchase on <a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks.ca</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/rewards/mobile-apps">Starbucks app</a>, and customers can select from a variety of eGift designs, choose any amount between $5-$100,&nbsp;add a personal message, enter an email address and hit send.

Apple iPhone users who have the Starbucks app can text their holiday wishes, thanks, congratulations or just let a friend know they care by sending a Starbucks eGift using iMessage. Scroll through iMessage’s app ribbon at the bottom of the screen and select the Starbucks logo for “Starbucks Gifts.”&nbsp;

Starbucks eGifts can also be sent on Microsoft Teams.&nbsp;When Microsoft Teams&nbsp;is open,&nbsp;look for the&nbsp;apps button in the&nbsp;Teams&nbsp;navigation bar.&nbsp;Select the Starbucks app&nbsp;and download. Next, login (or set up) your Starbucks Rewards account,&nbsp;open a chat or channel to select the team member you’d like to send an eGift to,&nbsp;select the&nbsp;card design,&nbsp;recipient, gift amount,&nbsp;then&nbsp;personalize&nbsp;your&nbsp;message and send through Microsoft&nbsp;Teams&nbsp;by adding to a chat or channel.&nbsp;

Starbucks Cards are the gift that keeps on giving. When customers register a Starbucks Card with the Starbucks Rewards&nbsp;loyalty program and make a qualifying purchase, they can&nbsp;start to earn Stars that can be redeemed for Starbucks beverages,&nbsp;food&nbsp;and more. Some restrictions apply. At participating stores. &nbsp;Details can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/rewards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">starbucks.ca/rewards</a>.&nbsp;

See &nbsp;<a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/gift">starbucks.ca/gift</a> for this year’s holiday designs and to learn more about all the ways to purchase a Starbucks Card.

As customers finalize their holiday shopping, Starbucks anticipates the busiest day for purchases of Starbucks Cards on December 23, citing the perennial popularity of gift cards as one of the most popular gifts during the holiday season.

Starbucks Anticipates Busiest Day for Starbucks Card Purchases on December 23 - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks Anticipates Busiest Day for Starbucks Card Purchases on December 23

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Starbucks Canada announced a wave of investments for its partners (employees), building on its 50-year history and tradition of listening and learning, while investing its success back into its people. Announcements of both operational and wage investments for Canadian partners and company-operated stores are designed to retain and recruit the best people and affirm Starbucks as one of the very best jobs in retail – a reflection of the company’s unwavering belief that success is best when it’s shared.

In a letter to all Canadian partners today, Starbucks Canada senior vice president and general manager, Lori Digulla, emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to prioritize partner care and well-being and its plan of continued investment in its people. The investments the company will be making will enhance wage, training and in-store experiences nationwide.

“We have been through some of the toughest times our world has ever seen and although we are still living through this immense change, we are moving forward thoughtfully and courageously to always be a company that cares for its people,” said Digulla. “Today, I am very proud and excited to announce record investments in our partners. Our partners are the heartbeat of Starbucks and what will always remain is our commitment to sharing our success with our partners.”

The investments include:

This is part of Starbucks multi-year aspiration to make meaningful investments in pay and partner care and comes shortly after a <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2021/starbucks-strengthens-partner-care-with-most-significant-investment-in-hourly-wages/">record investment</a> in retail hourly wages in May this year when the company committed to paying partners above minimum wage across the country. &nbsp;At that time, Starbucks increased its starting hourly rate for partners to $0.25 above provincial minimum wage and offered at least a 5 per cent increase based on tenure for all baristas, shift supervisors and café attendants.

In addition to providing competitive wages that are above minimum wage standards, Starbucks has long held the belief that all partners – including part-time partners who work 20 hours a week – deserve <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2021/06/Partner-Care-Oct-2021-EN.pdf">leading benefits</a> that support their total wellbeing. From partner perks like free coffee, discounts and free subscription to Headspace, to providing dental and health care, annual stock grants, RRSP matching, annual tuition reimbursements, and up to $5,000 in mental health coverage, Starbucks has and continues to be a leader in investing in its people.

Starbucks Canada Makes Historic Investments in its Partners, Building on Long-Time Belief that Success is Best When Shared - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks Canada Makes Historic Investments in its Partners, Building on Long-Time Belief that Success is Best When Shared

emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to prioritize partner care and well-being and its plan of continued investment in its people. The investments the company will be making will enhance wage, training and in-store experiences nationwide.

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‘But Have You Read the Book?’ will dive into the process of literature leaping from page to screen

Today, Starbucks and Netflix announced a new social content series as part of an exclusive relationship associated with the Netflix Book Club, a one-of-a-kind club for literary and entertainment lovers to hear about their new favourite books, films, and series adaptations first.

When discussing a film or television adaptation, the first question often asked is, ‘but have you read the book?’ That’s the inspiration behind Starbucks and Netflix new monthly social content series – ‘But Have You Read the Book?’ – which will share an inside look at how a book is brought from page to screen. As the series host, three-time Emmy Award winner and star of the hit series adaptation Orange Is the New Black, Uzo Aduba, will have conversations about the process with cast, creators and authors over a cup of coffee at Starbucks.

“Coffee brings us together for a shared experience with loved ones, friends, and even strangers, and Starbucks has built a community over the years for people to have conversations with one another about literature and entertainment,” said Starbucks CMO Brady Brewer. “The new relationship we’ve formed with Netflix for ‘But Have You Read the Book?’ is an exciting way to bring these conversations from the third place to our customers, wherever they are.”

Each episode takes place at various Starbucks locations around the U.S., and Uzo and guests will dig deeper into the stories and encourage audiences to create a similar dialogue with others through behind-the-scenes content, conversations and discussion guides. Topics will range from what drew them into the work, to how they relate to the storyline, to what message they hope viewers and readers take away from the story.

“From Bridgerton, To All the Boys and Sweet Magnolias to Queen’s Gambit, Unorthodox, Virgin River and of course Orange Is the New Black, Netflix loves bringing books to life on screen and creating conversation with passionate readers and fans,” said Netflix CMO Bozoma Saint John. “We’re thrilled to partner with Starbucks and excited that the incredible Uzo Aduba will be our host to discuss favourite books and what goes into the writing, developing, casting and creating of our beloved series and films.”

Netflix Book Club’s first pick of the month is Nella Larsen’s Harlem Renaissance-era novel, Passing. All are invited to read the book, watch the film on Netflix on November 10, and tune in for the first episode of ‘But Have You Read the Book?’ on November 16, which will live on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/stillwatchingnetflix">Still Watching Netflix YouTube Channel</a> and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/netflixcanada/?brand_redir=6275848869">Netflix Facebook channel</a>.

All are encouraged to participate in the book club by visiting NetflixBookClub.com to learn more about the current book selection, mark their calendars for the “But Have You Read the Book?” air date, and find behind-the-scenes content and discussion guides.

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Starbucks and Netflix team up on new social content series - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks and Netflix team up on new social content series

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Starbucks has always believed in being a different kind of company – guided by Our Mission to inspire and nurture the human spirit. &nbsp;For nearly 50 years, Starbucks has been putting partner (employee) care at the centre of everything it does and has continued to invest in and share its success with partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In June 2021, we reached a collective agreement with the United Steelworker’s Union (USW) representing employees at our Douglas Street location in Victoria, B.C., which includes some very small amendments to our Total Partner Care offerings.&nbsp;&nbsp; Importantly, the union distorts the facts by taking credit for the wage increases implemented unilaterally by Starbucks Canada. Earlier this year, Starbucks Canada raised wages for all hourly partners by at least 5% as part of a planned nationwide wage increase – the most significant investment in retail hourly pay in Starbucks Canada’s history - and made a commitment to paying a premium above minimum wage across the country.&nbsp; &nbsp;

More accurately, after union dues and donations, some hourly employees in this store will earn only a few cents ($0.04 to $0.07) more per hour than other Starbucks partners in the province.&nbsp; For other partners, their take-home pay will actually be the same as what partners in other stores receive.&nbsp;

We want all partners to love working at Starbucks and believe that our work environment, coupled with our <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/01/Partner-Care-Infographic.png">outstanding compensation and benefits</a>, make unions unnecessary at Starbucks, and that the best way to create an exceptional experience for partners is through an open and direct working relationship.

Statement: Starbucks Canada reaches a collective bargaining agreement with United Steelworkers union for Douglas Street drive-thru location - Starbucks Canada

Statement: Starbucks Canada reaches a collective bargaining agreement with United Steelworkers union for Douglas Street drive-thru location

Starbucks has always believed in being a different kind of company – guided by Our Mission to inspire and nurture the human spirit. &nbsp;For nearly 50 years, Starbucks has been putting partner (employee) care at the centre of everything it does and has continued to invest in and share its success with partners.&nbsp;&nbsp; In June […]

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2021/statement-starbucks-canada-reaches-a-collective-bargaining-agreement-with-united-steelworkers-union-for-douglas-street-drive-thru-location/

In continuing the company’s commitment to prioritizing partner (employee) care and safety throughout COVID-19,&nbsp;Starbucks&nbsp;Canada announced an update on vaccine pay and expanded COVID-19 benefits&nbsp;for Canadian partners.&nbsp;

Updates to the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/comprehensive-partner-care-during-covid-19/">existing comprehensive partner benefits</a> include:&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition, Starbucks remains committed to&nbsp;maintaining ongoing&nbsp;safety protocols&nbsp;in every store, including mandatory facial coverings, increased cleaning, pre-checks, shields and guards,&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/navigating-through-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Customers can learn more about Starbucks actions to help protect the health and well-being of our customers and partners and to help control the spread of COVID-19 in accordance with the guidance of public health authorities,&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/navigating-through-covid-19/">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Up-to-date information on COVID-19 vaccines can be found on the Government of Canada westside: <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/vaccines.html">Canada.ca</a>.

In continuing the company’s commitment to prioritizing partner (employee) care and safety throughout COVID-19, Starbucks Canada announced an update on vaccine pay and expanded COVID-19 benefits for Canadian partners.

Starbucks Canada offers Vaccine Pay and Expanded COVID-19 Benefits for Partners - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks Canada offers Vaccine Pay and Expanded COVID-19 Benefits for Partners

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In its continued commitment to prioritize the health and well-being of partners (employees) and customers and to control the spread of COVID-19, Starbucks today announced that beginning on September 14, it will require customers to wear facial coverings while visiting all company-owned café locations in Canada.

At select locations, customers will still have various options to order from Starbucks, including ordering at the drive-thru, curbside pickup through the Starbucks app or placing an order for delivery through Starbucks Delivers.

The company is committed to playing a constructive role in supporting health and government officials as they work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;All decisions are grounded in partner and customer care and safety, based on facts and science, and communicated with transparency.

For information on additional safety measures and what customers can expect click&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/what-customers-need-to-know-about-starbucks-response-to-covid-19/">here for an at-a-glance</a>&nbsp;guide for customers.

Protecting Partners and Customers – An Update on Facial Coverings

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Starbucks has moved quickly to modify and adapt its operations to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Since the onset of the pandemic, Starbucks guiding principle has been to prioritize partner (employee) and customer safety, based on facts and science, and communicated with transparency.&nbsp;

Below is a list of Starbucks precautionary measures in company-operated stores located in Canada.

Starbucks has moved quickly to modify and adapt its operations to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Since the onset of the pandemic, Starbucks guiding principle has been to prioritize partner (employee) and customer safety.

Starbucks Canada’s Safety Precautions in Light of COVID-19

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As we continue to navigate through the uncertainty of COVID-19, Starbucks is increasing its already expanded support for its partners (employees), customers, and communities. Through this lens of care and support for people, the company has and will continue to make all decisions, rooted in facts and science, in cooperation with local authorities. 

“As we look ahead, your safety and well-being remain our top priority as the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve,” wrote Lori Digulla, Starbucks Canada president, in a letter to all partners today.

In her letter, Digulla outlined important announcements related to partner, customer, and community care.

As the global health crisis continues, Starbucks announced today that it will extend its temporarily expanded COVID-19 benefit of Catastrophe Pay by an additional two weeks. That means any partner who is sick, unable to work or who feels more comfortable self-isolating or not working can stay home and will be paid for their scheduled shifts until May 3.

Starbucks other COVID-19 benefits — Starbucks Service Pay and CUP Fund — will also be extended until May 3. Partners who are healthy and choose to work will receive an additional $3 per hour with Starbucks Service Pay. Partners experiencing COVID-19 financial burdens can apply for a one-time grant with the company’s emergency financial aid CUP Fund. And all partners always have access to significant free resources through our <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://departments.starbucks.com/sites/canadapartnerfamily/en-us/Pages/Employee-Assistance-Program-(Canada).aspx" target="_blank">Employee Assistance Program</a>, in addition to a free subscription to the <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-headspace-mental-health/" target="_blank">meditation app Headspace</a>.

While stores across the country continue to support communities at local levels, we are assembling the biggest, most comprehensive donation program in the history of Starbucks Canada to support Canadians across the country in three areas: first responders and front-line workers; access to food; and support for the most vulnerable Canadians.

Today, The Starbucks Foundation announced the first investment in Canada will be a $200,000 donation to support front-line health care workers and vulnerable Canadians, which includes the elderly and homeless.

Of that total donation, $100,000 will be given to COVID-19 fundraising drives set up by hospital foundations in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. 

This is another way Starbucks is supporting first responders. Last week, the company announced it will give a <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-partners-covid-19-front-line-responders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">free tall brewed coffee to front-line responders</a> to the COVID-19 outbreak through May 3. Thus far, we’ve already donated over 50,000 cups!

The other $100,000 from The Starbucks Foundation will go to <a href="http://www.unitedway.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">United Way Centraide</a>’s COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund. The United Way works with a number of agencies to support local communities and to help Canadians already facing barriers (such as poverty, homelessness, or social isolation) get through this challenging time.&nbsp;Starbucks partners have always cared most for Canadians who need a fair shot and who are at risk of being left behind at the best of times, and especially during a crisis, which is why this donation is so meaningful.

The donation will help the United Way accomplish its priorities: to ensure people in self-isolation have basic needs, such as food and supplies; to give support to seniors in isolation; and to ensure mental health services are available to vulnerable Canadians.&nbsp;

“[COVID-19] hasn’t changed the value and work that we’ve done. It’s just amplified and heightened what we’re doing in the community, which is working with the most marginalized populations to support the greatest needs,” said Colin Jenkins, senior manager of corporate donor relations at United Way Greater Toronto.

On a global scale, The Starbucks Foundation will contribute $1 million to the <a href="https://covid19responsefund.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund</a> in support of the World Health Organization (WHO), powered by the United Nations. The fund strengthens WHO’s efforts to track and understand the spread of the virus, help patients get the care they need, and workers get essential supplies and information, and accelerates the development of vaccines, tests, and treatments.&nbsp;

In China, early signs of recovery from COVID-19 are showing. That’s why The Starbucks Foundation will also contribute $1 million to Give2Asia to support a project focused on supporting front-line medical workers and helping protect local communities by strengthening capabilities at the grassroots level. The $1 million donation to Give2Asia will help provide training on coronavirus prevention, diagnosis and treatment to doctors in less developed areas, educate local communities on disease prevention, and offer free counseling to health care workers psychologically impacted by COVID-19.

Starbucks is dedicated to serving our communities in the most impactful way we can. To learn more about how Starbucks is managing through COVID-19, please <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/navigating-through-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">visit our blog</a>.

As we continue to navigate through the uncertainty of COVID-19, Starbucks is increasing its already expanded support for its partners (employees), customers, and communities.

Starbucks Extends Its Already Expanded COVID-19 Support for Partners

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The company’s catastrophe pay now includes those who feel unsafe coming to work and those who need to stay home to care for children.

As Canada mobilizes to limit the spread of COVID-19 and things continue to change daily, Starbucks remains committed to prioritizing partner (employee) and customer care.

Today, in a letter to all partners from Starbucks Canada president, Lori Digulla, announced two measures to expand on the partner care resources and support that were <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/comprehensive-partner-care-during-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">introduced last week</a>.

The first is to extend the 14-day catastrophe pay for scheduled shifts, to now include partners who are worried about or are feeling unsafe coming to work, as well as partners who need to stay home to care for children.

“I want to reinforce that none of us should have to choose between taking care of ourselves and coming to work,” Digulla wrote. “We will continue to keep your safety and care at the heart of every single decision we make – and we’re making them daily in these unprecedented times.”&nbsp;

In addition to expanded catastrophe pay, Starbucks also announced that it will temporarily waive eligibility requirements and documentation for the company’s emergency financial aid CUP Fund. Partners who have been impacted by COVID-19 can request a one-time grant to support a personal financial hardship. The payment will then be expedited within three days. 

“Our teams continue to push for additional ways to support you and our customers,” Digulla wrote today. “We’re doing the very best we can to honour our mission and values while keeping you safe and secure.” 

Safety Measures Implemented in Stores

Based on public health official guidance, the company has implemented social distancing operating models and expanded sanitizing and cleaning processes to ensure stores remain safe spaces for partners who want to come to work, and they continue to make daily decisions.

The company’s catastrophe pay now includes those who feel unsafe coming to work and those who need to stay home to care for children.

Starbucks Canada Extends Partner (Employee) Care Resources and Support amid COVID-19

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2020/further-extension-of-partner-care-during-covid-19/

A letter to our Canadian partners (employees) from Lori Digulla, president of Starbucks Canada

I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart. The flexibility and responsibility I’m seeing in every store I’ve been in since we started to modify our operations in response to COVID-19 as well as the continued Best Moments for our customers and each other is amazing. There have been new processes and changes to adapt to in our stores, and in our personal lives, all while experiencing the uncertainty of what’s next. I know this can be hard and heavy, and I thank you so very much for your courage to lead through it.

The best way I can stay present is to stay centred on what’s important. I remind myself with every new report or government decision that I, and all Starbucks leaders, will make the best decisions when we are grounded in partner care, the important role we play in our communities, decision-making based in facts and science, combined with frequent communication.

Over the last two weeks we have <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="activated precautions (opens in a new tab)" href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/managing-through-the-dynamics-of-covid-19/" target="_blank">activated precautions</a> in all stores nationwide – from increased cleaning and sanitizing to pausing reusable cups – we <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/comprehensive-partner-care-during-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="expanded catastrophe pay (opens in a new tab)">expanded catastrophe pay</a> for partners impacted by COVID-19 so you never have to choose between work and taking care of your health, and we enacted travel-related self-isolation requirements to support social distancing.

We considered what else we could do to support social distancing and discourage prolonged social gatherings, given this is important to curbing the spread of the virus. Starting today, and for at least two weeks: 

We are&nbsp;temporarily moving all stores to a “to go” model. These are the actions we know are effective based on our experience in China and here’s what you can expect:

We are temporarily closing company-operated stores in high-social gathering locations like stores located in malls that don’t have exterior/street access, and in colleges and universities. &nbsp;

We have also begun leaning into&nbsp;additional measures on a store-by-store basis, including reducing operating hours or temporarily closing select stores.

These changes start today and will last for at least two weeks. All stores in Canada will move to the “to go” model by Wednesday, and these closures will be complete by the end of the week. [Starbucks ceo] Kevin Johnson outlined those options <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="in a letter last week (opens in a new tab)" href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/our-role-and-responsibility-navigating-through-covid-19/" target="_blank">in a letter last week</a> and we will continue to monitor facts at a local level to make the best decision for each community we’re honoured to be a part of.

We connected with your field leaders and store managers, and they are ready to work with you to make these temporary changes and ensure partners are feeling fully supported. We’re sorry, that for the time being, customers will not be able to sit in our stores and enjoy the Third Place we work so hard to offer them every day. This decision was not made lightly as we know the important role our stores play in service of our communities and how our customers enjoy our seating as an important part of their daily lives. I find some comfort knowing that most of our customers already get their order “to go,” many of our customers who typically use our café seating are also used to visiting us at MOP and Drive Thru, and the growing importance of social distancing and curbing larger gatherings is really about keeping them, you, and all of us safer. 

Partner care is the top priority and we will take care of anyone impacted by these changes. Our expanded Catastrophe Pay program, which was shared last week, will apply when you are unable to work due to you or someone close to you having symptoms or confirmed diagnosis, or due to a store closure. We have also decided to supplement partner pay with Catastrophe Pay when working partners experience a reduction in scheduled hours.&nbsp;

To further assist partners who may experience financial hardships, Starbucks has also made the decision to&nbsp;invest up to an additional $10 million into the&nbsp;emergency financial aid CUP Fund&nbsp;and other resources globally to support partners’ needs beyond pay. As you know, the CUP Fund was put in place to help partners during times of special need and we are currently reviewing the eligibility categories and approval process to expedite grants during these uncertain times. We will have updated partner FAQs and more information published for you in a few days. In the meantime, please remember and remind each other of all the support available to you including&nbsp;&nbsp;paid sick time, access to health care resources, as well as support like our <a href="https://work.headspace.com/starbucks/member-enroll/login" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">free&nbsp;Headspace subscriptions</a>, and our <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Employee Assistance Program (opens in a new tab)" href="https://departments.starbucks.com/sites/canadapartnerfamily/en-us/Pages/Employee-Assistance-Program-(Canada).aspx" target="_blank">Employee Assistance Program</a> (EAP) for free mental health counseling for all partners. And remember – the Partner Resources Support Center (888-SBUX-411), your field leaders, and every support partner are all here to help.&nbsp;

I expect things will continue to evolve before COVID-19 is past us, and we will continue to prioritize what’s best for you, your families and our customers, informed by science and facts. All 23,000 of us have already proven ourselves nimble, courageous and so true to our culture, I’ve never felt prouder to be a partner. Again, THANK YOU so very much and I sincerely look forward to the day we can welcome all our customers to come sit and stay in our wonderful Third Place of warmth and belonging.

In a letter to our Canadian partners (employees), Lori Digulla, president of Starbucks Canada, outlines how we will temporarily move all stores to a “to go” model.

Caring for Our Partners and Customers during COVID-19

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2020/caring-for-our-partners-and-customers-during-covid-19/

Starbucks is committed to caring for the health and well-being of our partners and customers and playing a constructive role in supporting local health officials and government leaders. Read about the latest decisions being made by the company and the actions being taken in preparation for COVID-19.

<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-safety-precautions-in-light-of-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here for a list of Starbucks precautionary measures</a> in company-operated stores located in Canada.

<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Click here for an at-a-glance look (opens in a new tab)" href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/what-customers-need-to-know-about-starbucks-response-to-covid-19/" target="_blank">Click here for an at-a-glance look</a> at what customers need to know about their local store, Starbucks partners, and their community.

Updated as of 9:30 a.m. July 8

An Update on Facial Coverings

We all have a shared responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. In its continued commitment to prioritize the health and well-being of partners (employees) and customers, Starbucks remains dedicated to playing a constructive role in supporting health and government officials as they work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

With widespread vaccine availability and the ongoing progress against COVID-19, Starbucks will follow&nbsp;local&nbsp;guidance and will lift&nbsp;mandatory&nbsp;facial covering&nbsp;requirements for customers, only where and when legally allowed&nbsp;by local government and public health units. Out of an abundance of caution, all Starbucks partners at company-operated locations in Canada will still be required to wear masks and any other locally mandated PPE during their shifts.

For information on additional safety measures and what customers can expect click&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/what-customers-need-to-know-about-starbucks-response-to-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here for an at-a-glance</a>&nbsp;guide for customers.

Updated as of 12:30 p.m. May 10

Starbucks Continues to Support&nbsp;its Partners with new Temporary&nbsp;COVID-19 Sick Days&nbsp;

As Starbucks continues to explore all the ways to support its people the best it can as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the company announced it will be offering&nbsp;three COVID-19 sick days&nbsp;to&nbsp;all&nbsp;its Canadian retail hourly partners. This is the latest update to&nbsp;company’s&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/comprehensive-partner-care-during-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">existing comprehensive partner benefits</a>, which now includes:&nbsp;

Updated as of 1 p.m. April 26

Starbucks Canada Continues to Update its COVID-19 Benefits for Partners

With partner (employee) safety top of mind, Starbucks Canada announced additional updates to its <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/comprehensive-partner-care-during-covid-19/">existing comprehensive partner benefits</a> including:

Updated as of 4:30 p.m. February 22

Starbucks Canada Offers Vaccine Pay and Expanded COVID-19 Benefits for Partners

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Updated as of 3:30 p.m. November 25

Starbucks Canada Moves to a “To Go” Model in All Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba Stores

Starbucks Canada confirmed today that company-operated stores in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba will move to a “to go” model. Customers will still be able to walk into Starbucks stores and order at the counter, order ahead through the Starbucks App and pick up in store, order at the Drive-Thru, and in select areas can also order Starbucks Delivers powered by Uber Eats. However, all seating will be temporarily paused or removed, including patio and outdoor areas.

Updated as of 8&nbsp;a.m. October 1

Starbucks Temporarily Moves to a “To Go” Model in All Quebec and Ottawa Stores

This week, Starbucks Canada will temporarily modify its operations in all its company-operated stores in Quebec and Ottawa to a grab and go model.

This latest move in the company’s efforts to keep partners (employees), customers and communities safe follows the Quebec government’s mandate that restaurants move to grab and go in three districts in the province as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.

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Updated as of 1:00 p.m. August 31

Protecting Partners and Customers – An Update on Facial Coverings

For information on additional safety measures and what customers can expect click&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/what-customers-need-to-know-about-starbucks-response-to-covid-19/" target="_blank">here for an at-a-glance</a>&nbsp;guide for customers.

Updated as of 8:00 a.m. June 29

Starbucks Canada to Begin Testing Curbside Pickup

Starbucks Canada is accelerating the transformation of its stores with the launch of Curbside Pickup as customer needs of convenience, connection and personalization continue to evolve and retail landscapes shift as a result of COVID-19. The company will begin testing in 10 stores in Ontario cities starting July 9 and will add 20 additional test locations in Vancouver and the Greater Toronto Area through the summer.

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Updated as of 8:00 a.m. June 22

The Starbucks Foundation Invests $145,000 in Grants to Support Local Communities across Canada

To build on its contributions toward COVID-19 community response to date, The Starbucks Foundation has selected more than 400 organizations across Canada and the U.S. to receive grants in its third round of Neighbourhood Grants. These grants, which total $1.4 million, were informed and inspired by Starbucks partners who highlighted the causes and organizations uplifting their communities during COVID-19.

In Canada, we heard from our partners about how hunger relief, supporting families and children, and addressing homelessness are top of mind. Thanks to nearly 400 partner nominations, $145,000 in grants are being distributed to 56 local organizations across the country.&nbsp;

Updated as of 11:30 a.m. June 11

Starbucks Canada Aims to Reopen Nearly Half of Stores for Dine In by the End of June

Starbucks Canada is reopening cafes and patio seating for customers, aiming to have nearly half of its company-owned stores open by the end of June. The company will reopen for dine in on a community-by-community basis, starting in B.C. where 16 stores opened last week. Starbucks is working closely with local leadership, health authorities and provincial governments as restrictions start to lift across the country.

Updated as of 8 a.m. May 28

Starbucks Canada Welcomes Customers Back in Stores with Grab-and-Go Service

With <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-prioritizes-safety-as-it-resumes-store-operations/" target="_blank">partner (employee) and customer safety</a> top of mind, Starbucks Canada is set to open its cafe&nbsp;doors and welcome customers for walk-in take-out orders. By this weekend, two-thirds of stores across Canada will offer grab-and-go service,&nbsp;which means customers can go inside a cafe to place their order to go, but all in-cafe and patio seating will remain closed.

The grab-and-go model continues to prioritize safety. When a customer walks into a cafe to order at the counter, they will notice floor markers and signage directing them where to stand to remain physically distant. There will also be a plexi-shield at the POS as an added barrier to protect partners and customers. Partners will wear facial coverings and adhere to Starbucks <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/what-customers-need-to-know-about-starbucks-response-to-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safety measures</a>.

To learn how customers can grab-and-go with Starbucks, watch the video below.

Updated as of 8 a.m. May 21

How the Starbucks App Evolved into a Tool for Customers Amid COVID-19

Over the past few weeks, the&nbsp;third place&nbsp;experience created by Starbucks partners (employees) in our stores has extended and evolved into an enhanced digital relationship with customers through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/coffeehouse%2Fmobile-apps" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks App</a>.&nbsp;

The Starbucks App provides a safe, easy, and convenient way for customers to enjoy their favourite menu items. Customers can order ahead and pay with the Starbucks App at participating stores, which not only saves time, but helps minimize contact with partners and other customers.

To see how customers can use the Starbucks App, watch the video below.

Updated as of 9 a.m. May 11

Starbucks Canada Prioritizes Safety as it Resumes Store Operations

As the global crisis evolved, Starbucks Canada tested and refined new ways of working to protect the health and well-being of its partners and customers, consistent with the guidance provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada, provincial governments and safety experts.&nbsp;

Now, as Starbucks is on track to <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-expects-to-resume-operations-in-as-many-stores-as-possible-by-the-end-of-may/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resume operations in as many stores as possible</a> by the end of May, partner and customer safety continues to be the company’s No. 1 priority.&nbsp;

Updated as of 9:35 a.m. April 29

Starbucks Canada Expects to Resume Operations in as Many Stores as Possible by the End of May

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Starbucks Canada made the decision to step back and rethink what partner (employee) and customer safety looked like. Starbucks&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-to-close-cafes-and-move-to-drive-thru-and-delivery-only/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closed most company-operated cafés</a>&nbsp;and reduced its service to Drive-Thru, delivery, and take-out only.&nbsp;

These open stores have helped Starbucks test and refine new ways of working, specifically in this social-distancing environment, and now, the company is ready to roll out its new model more broadly.

Over the following days and weeks, customers will have access to more stores, and the company expects to&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-expects-to-resume-operations-in-as-many-stores-as-possible-by-the-end-of-may/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resume operations in as many stores as possible by the end of May</a>.&nbsp;This will be determined on a community-by-community basis as Starbucks continues to prioritize the health and well-being of its customers and partners.

<div class="wp-block-button aligncenter"><a class="wp-block-button__link no-border-radius" style="color: #ffffff" href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-expects-to-resume-operations-in-as-many-stores-as-possible-by-the-end-of-may/" target="_blank" rel="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en/stories/2020/starbucks-canada-expects-to-resume-operations-in-as-many-stores-as-possible-by-the-end-of-may/ noopener noreferrer">Read the full announcement</a></div>

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To learn about what customers can expect, watch the video below.

Updated as of 9 a.m. April 23

Announcements

At a Glance: Our Response to COVID-19

Starbucks Anticipates Busiest Day for Starbucks Card Purchases on December 23

Starbucks Canada Makes Historic Investments in its Partners, Building on Long-Time Belief that Success is Best When Shared

Starbucks and Netflix team up on new social content series

Statement: Starbucks Canada reaches a collective bargaining agreement with United Steelworkers union for Douglas Street drive-thru location

Starbucks Canada offers Vaccine Pay and Expanded COVID-19 Benefits for Partners

Protecting Partners and Customers – An Update on Facial Coverings

Starbucks Canada’s Safety Precautions in Light of COVID-19

Starbucks Extends Its Already Expanded COVID-19 Support for Partners

Starbucks Canada Extends Partner (Employee) Care Resources and Support amid COVID-19

Caring for Our Partners and Customers during COVID-19

Navigating through COVID-19