Starbucks has recently implemented a significant change to its store policies, now requiring customers to make a purchase prior to accessing restrooms and Wi-Fi. This shift, announced to take effect on Monday, marks a notable reversal from a nearly seven-year practice allowing non-paying individuals to use these facilities.
The Seattle-based coffee chain aims to prioritize paying customers with this new code of conduct, which will also include prohibitions against behavior such as discrimination, harassment, smoking, vaping, drug use, and panhandling. Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson stated that the intention behind the policy change is to foster a welcoming and pleasant environment for all patrons.
This policy change reflects on a past incident in 2018 when police were called on two Black men sitting in a Starbucks in Philadelphia without making a purchase. Their arrest sparked national outrage over issues of racial profiling and led to widespread corporate responses, including the closure of 8,000 locations for racial-bias training and a financial settlement with the men involved.
In Texas, where Starbucks operates approximately 1,300 locations—second only to California—this new policy will impact many customers. Major cities like Houston and Dallas have substantial numbers of stores, making the implications of this policy change particularly noteworthy.
Overall, while the new policy aims to enhance the experience for paying customers, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing conversation around access and inclusivity within public spaces. The coffee giant is seeking to balance customer needs while addressing past incidents that raised questions about their policies and customer treatment.