Starbucks Requires Purchase for Restroom Access

Starbucks has announced a significant policy change requiring customers to make a purchase before using its restrooms, set to take effect on January 27. This marks a reversal of a six-year policy that allowed anyone to access facilities without a purchase, part of a broader 'Back to Starbucks' strategy aimed at enhancing customer experience and boosting sales, according to the new CEO Brian Niccol. The company stated that this move, described as a 'Coffeehouse Code of Conduct,' prioritizes paying customers and is a practical step to improve café ambiance. Alongside this policy, Starbucks is introducing new menu items, including a pistachio-flavored drink range in the UK. The decision follows reports of declining sales and customer return rates, prompting the company to implement changes to regain customer loyalty. Staff will receive training to enforce the new rules, which also include restrictions against disruptive behavior in cafés.