Restaurant Technology Trends in 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn the startup costs of opening an ice cream shop, including rent, equipment, renovations, permits, inventory, labor, marketing, and reserves.
Aug 28, 2026
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
Aug 26, 2026
A restaurant P&L statement reveals sales, expenses, and profits, helping owners manage costs, improve margins, and plan finances more effectively.
Aug 26, 2026
RaceTrac has appointed Jill Pemberton as chief financial officer, succeeding Karla Ahlert, who moves into the newly created role of chief administrative officer.
Aug 26, 2026
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 2026
A payroll advance policy helps restaurant owners define eligibility, limits, repayment, documentation, approval procedures, and compliance requirements for employee advances.
Aug 24, 2026
Levain Bakery appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as co-CEOs, blending operational and marketing expertise to power national expansion and innovation while staying rooted in its brand values.
Aug 25, 2026
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Learn about the recent dress code changes at Starbucks and the resulting controversy with employees and the union.


Starbucks' decision to update its dress code policy has sparked significant backlash among employees, notably baristas, who have voiced concerns over the financial burden of complying with the new regulations. The requirement for employees to wear black shirts, whether provided by the company or self-purchased, has raised issues of affordability and practicality. Paige Summers, a shift supervisor and union member, highlighted the disconnect between the focus on appearance and the quality of service provided to customers. This shift in priorities has fueled discontent among the workforce, leading to the possibility of further walkouts and protests.
The strained relationship between Starbucks and the Workers United union, an affiliate of the Service Employees International Union, has escalated due to the recent dress code changes. The breakdown in negotiations and failure to reach a contract by the end of 2024 has resulted in escalating tensions. The framework agreement intended to address outstanding issues has not yielded the desired outcomes, causing union members to consider drastic measures like multi-day strikes. The inability to find common ground on critical matters, including the dress code modifications, has highlighted the widening gap between the company and its workforce.
Despite the protests and dissent surrounding the dress code alterations, Starbucks has maintained that the operational impact has been minimal, with the majority of its stores operating as usual. The company's focus on delivering a consistent coffeehouse experience through the updated dress code underscores its commitment to enhancing brand image and customer satisfaction. However, the underlying discontent among employees and the union cannot be overlooked, as it may have unseen repercussions on employee morale and ultimately impact the quality of service provided to Starbucks patrons. Balancing these operational considerations with employee welfare remains a pivotal challenge for Starbucks amidst the ongoing controversy.