Are Notes on Cups at Starbucks Mandatory?

Yes — Starbucks implemented a policy in 2025 that requires baristas to add handwritten notes on every cup, without exception.

The initiative, part of the coffee giant’s “Back to Starbucks” campaign, aims to improve customer experience and engagement.

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What if Staff Disobey or Make a Mistake?

Starbucks has specific rules for handwritten notes on cups and disciplinary guidelines for infractions (Business Insider).

• Minor infraction: Not writing on every customer’s cup, using a pen other than a Sharpie to write a message, writing on the lid of the cup, or marking cups in advance before the customer orders. A barista would initially receive verbal coaching — so long as the employee has completed appropriate training and hasn’t received prior corrective actions.
• Medium infraction: Putting pop culture, political, or religious references on a customer’s cup. Instead of a verbal warning, staff automatically receive a written warning.
• Serious infraction: Writing messages on beverages that don’t align with Starbucks’ “Mission or Values,” repeatedly forgetting to mark a customer’s cup, etc. Punishment at this level can include termination.

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