Starbucks executive chairman steps down after 36 years

Howard Schultz, the executive chairman of coffee chain Starbucks, has announced his departure from the role after 36 years.

In a letter to the partners and employees of the company he confirmed that he would be leaving on 26 June 2018.

Schultz joined Starbucks in 1982 and has overseen massive growth, from just 11 outlets in 1987 to more than 28,000 in 77 countries today.

It is rumoured that he will run for office as a Democratic candidate in 2020. Over the years, Schultz has become known for using his position to speak on political and social issues such as racial tension in Ferguson, St Louis and same-sex marriage.

Part of his departing letter reads: “As I prepare to step away, I’d like to humbly remind you not to lose sight of what matters most: your fellow partners and our customers. During all my years at Starbucks, in every weekly leadership meeting and quarterly board meeting, I always imagined two empty chairs in the room.

“One was for a partner and one for a customer. When I had to make a decision, I asked myself if the choice would make both proud. Today, I ask that you continue this tradition, and let the answer guide you. I promise the two chairs will serve you and the company well.”