Starbucks wants you to buy something or leave
14 Jan 2025

Starbucks, the world's largest coffee chain, has announced a major policy shift for its North American outlets.

Starting January 27, the company will no longer allow people to use its facilities without making a purchase.

The move comes as a departure from a six-year-old policy that allowed people to stay and use restrooms in Starbucks stores without buying anything.

New policy part of 'back to Starbucks' strategy
Strategic shift

The policy change is part of the "back to Starbucks" strategy, an initiative started by the company's new leader to combat falling sales.

The revised code of conduct also addresses harassment, and bans smoking and alcohol from outside to make stores more welcoming.

A Starbucks spokesperson told BBC that enforcing this Coffeehouse Code of Conduct is a practical step toward prioritizing paying customers who want to enjoy their cafes.

Starbucks to display new rules at every store
Rule enforcement

Starbucks has assured the revised rules will be prominently displayed in all stores.

Employees will be trained to ask anyone violating these guidelines to leave, and are authorized to involve law enforcement if necessary.

In 2018, two men were arrested at a Philadelphia Starbucks, prompting the company to allow unrestricted access to its cafes and restrooms.

Cafes to offer free refills
Sales boost

Along with the policy changes, Starbucks also plans to provide one free refill of hot or iced coffee for customers who buy a drink for in-store consumption.

The move comes as the company struggles with declining sales amid backlash over price hikes and boycotts over the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Last year, Starbucks recruited Brian Niccol, former head of Mexican food chain Chipotle, to revive the business.