In a first-of-a-kind initiative for a food and beverage retailer in India, Tata Starbucks have announced a five-day work schedule for all of its 1200+ partners (that’s what the company calls its employees).  This is a way that the company recognizes the commitments of employees outside of work.  The initiative will come in effect from May 15 this year, and by doing so, the company gives its partners additional 52 personal days off and greater flexibility in their lives. 

Soumitro Ghosh, CEO TATA Starbucks Private Limited said in a statement, “Both Starbucks and Tata share values of putting our partners (employees) first and sharing the company’s success. We acknowledge that our success would not be possible without the contributions our partners make on a daily basis to provide an exceptional third place experience for our customers and we are pleased to adopt a five day work schedule that also recognizes their commitments outside of their work.”

According to the company, this move has been formulated keeping in mind the top-most request of the ‘partners’ in the form of feedback. It also shows how the company continues to invest in its partners (employee) and the organization’s aspiration to become the Employer of Choice. A big part of partner investments means continually investing in the partner experience that reflects Starbucks Mission and Values. TATAStarbucks has led in the areas of both partner development, through mentorships and leadership courses, and personal development, with life-coaching and training programs for all store partners.

Ghosh in his statement added, “We are proud to be a progressive workplace in India and will continue to engage in discussions with our partners to determine how to make their experience better and more valuable in line with the mission and values of both Tata Global Beverages and Starbucks.” Starbucks, which opened its first India store in October 2012 in India, now has more than 80 outlets and its pace of expansion has been a record in Starbucks' 43-year history, according to the company. 

Earlier this year, Starbucks China announced a monthly housing allowance subsidy to help China partners overcome the financial challenges of starting their careers. In 2015, Starbucks UK launched the Home Sweet Loan program providing an interest-free loan to help partners pay rental deposits when they're moving into a new home. In 2014, Starbucks launched the College Achievement Plan that creates an opportunity for U.S. partners to earn their bachelor’s degree with full tuition coverage.