US: Starbucks Making Policy Changes, ‘Buy Something Or Just Leave’

Starbucks is changing the policy of allowing people to hang out at its cafes or use restrooms without making any purchases.

In what could be called the company’s biggest-ever PR disaster, Starbucks was used as shelter and bathroom access for the homeless and non-paying customers. The new code of conduct announced to stores Monday is CEP Brian Niccol’s strategy to lure back customers and boost sales. The new policy is for all locations in North America and will be displayed on store doors.

These changes are said to be a practical step that helps us prioritize our paying customers who want to sit and enjoy our cafes or need to use the restroom during their visit. By setting clear expectations for behavior and use of our spaces, Starbucks believes it can create a better environment for everyone.

Employees will receive training on the new policy. The open-door policy began in 2018 after two black men were arrested at a Philadelphia location while waiting for a friend. One of the men said he asked to use the restroom shortly after walking in and was told it was only for paying customers.