Starbucks says it will raise its baristas’ pay — and allow visible tattoos to boot — as it seeks to retain talent and address hardship among its legions of staffers.

In a message to employees, chief operating officer Troy Alstead said the company will increase starting-pay rates in the U.S. in January. That month all baristas and shift supervisors will also receive a raise, and experienced partners will be eligible for a “lump sum increase” to reward tenure.

Baristas will be able to display more sartorial flair — by showing their tattoos, or sporting colored ties and neck scarves, as well as black denim. “We want to build a company where self-expression, empowerment and inclusion are nurtured,” Alstead said. The company didn’t disclose pay rates, which vary according to market; a Starbucks employee recently told The Seattle Times he started at $9.50 an hour. Job reviews website Glassdoor indicates that average barista hourly wage is $9.32 an hour.

Starbucks, which has been criticized for hectic and inconsistent work schedules, will also offer employees more time with managers to talk about their personal goals and the work environment. In addition, the company will offer bonuses to 28,000 outstanding employees each quarter, while eliminating performance review forms and ratings for baristas and shift supervisors.

Store employees will also get one free food item per shift.