January 14, 2025
By setting clear expectations for behavior and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone.
Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson, regarding new rules laid out by the coffee chain that reverses a 2018 policy allowing for individuals not purchasing anything to sit in the cafes.
Why It Matters: Starbucks – the largest coffee company in the world – announced new rules for North American stores and their employees on Monday. The updated code of conduct allows only paying customers use of the cafe (such as sitting in or using the restroom); it also bans harassment, discrimination, consumption of outside alcohol, panhandling, drug use, smoking and vaping. Starbucks employees will ask violators to leave. Since Starbucks implemented an open-door policy in 2018, unruly and disruptive behaviors have been reported at stores across the U.S., prompting at least 16 stores to close over safety issues in 2022.
Read More: Hanging out at Starbucks will cost you as company reverses its open-door policy (The Associated Press)
Photo Credit: Lingchor / Unsplash
by Emily Hooker, based in Texas
