Over the last five years, he said, Starbucks has seen double-digit increases in healthcare costs for its employees, and company executives expect those expenses to jump another 14% this year. The reason costs keep shooting up is to offset the price of medical attention for the 45 million Americans who are without coverage, Schultz said.

Healthcare costs are one of the most vital issues facing retailers today, he said, stressing the importance of the industry providing benefits for employees. Such benefits will retain valuable employees, Schultz said. "It's good business," he said. "It produces a loyal workplace."

But healthcare reform is not on Congress' agenda this year, Schultz said. "Let's get away from the politics and do what's right," he urged. As a response, Starbucks will hold its own forums in Washington DC this year promoting the issue.