How to do good and do good business, w/Starbucks' Howard Schultz

Entrepreneurial DNA

Howard Schultz emphasizes the importance of maintaining an entrepreneurial mindset within Starbucks, even as it scales. He believes that taking risks and staying true to core values are essential for building a great, enduring company. Schultz shares that Starbucks' success relies heavily on human interactions, with each $5 sale contributing to billions in revenue annually.

If you're going to build a great, enduring company, not only do you have to take a risk every now and then, but you've got to be able to jump into the deep end of the pool and say, you know, we're going to figure it out.

--- Howard Schultz

This mindset is crucial for innovation, both in the market and within the company, as demonstrated by Starbucks' expansion in China 1.

   

Leadership Challenges

Leadership at Starbucks involves balancing growth with maintaining the company's core values and human connection. Schultz highlights the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and empathy, especially in a world where technology often diminishes human interaction. He believes that Starbucks' success in China is not just about product innovation but also about prioritizing people and their experiences.

When you get this big, the challenge is, how do you get big and stay small? How do you maintain the intimacy?

--- Howard Schultz

This approach underscores the company's commitment to its employees and customers, ensuring that its growth does not come at the expense of its foundational values 2.