Starbucks plans to hire more baristas.

The move, reports BBC, is part of the coffee chain’s strategy to win back customers.

“Over the last couple of years, we’ve actually been removing labour from the stores. I think with the hope that equipment could offset the removal of the labour,” Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol said during an investor call.

“What we’re finding is… that wasn’t an accurate assumption with what played out.”

According to the BBC, the company tested increasing staff numbers in a handful of stores in 2024. Since joining the company, Niccol has been expanding the approach.

Starbucks is also updating its employee dress code for a more streamlined look. Starting May 12, Starbucks baristas will be required to wear a solid black top and any shade of khaki, black, or blue denim bottoms. The coffee chain will also provide baristas with a new line of company-branded t-shirts. The goal is to enhance the look of the iconic green aprons.