Starbucks CEO Pay Gap Hits Record 6,666-to-1 Ratio Amid Worker Compensation Concerns
Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol's $95.8 million compensation in 2024 dwarfs the median barista earnings of $14,674, marking the widest pay disparity in the S&P 500. The 6,666-to-1 ratio, highlighted in an AFL-CIO report, underscores growing income inequality trends as 60% of Niccol's stock awards are tied to share performance.
While base salaries accounted for just $1.6 million of Niccol's package, the equity-heavy structure mirrors corporate America's compensation models. The barista wages fall below 2025's federal poverty level, creating potential ESG headwinds for the coffee chain as labor advocates intensify scrutiny.