New dress code regulations were introduced, but Starbucks did not reimburse their American employees, and as a result, they were sued.

In response to Starbucks' implementation of new employee dress code but refusal to reimburse the cost of the uniforms, Starbucks employees in three states in the United States took legal action on September 17, accusing the chain coffee shop of violating state laws. Since May 12 of this year, Starbucks has implemented new dress code standards, requiring employees in North America to wear a signature green apron, a black short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirt, khaki, black, or blue unpatterned jeans, or a black dress that is not higher than 4 inches above the knee, waterproof shoes in specified colors such as black, gray, navy, brown, or white, and no visible socks. According to the new rules, employees who do not comply with the standards cannot work.