Starbucks Implements New Purchase Requirement Policy

Starbucks is implementing a new policy across its North American stores requiring customers to make a purchase in order to use facilities like restrooms, effective January 27. This marks a significant departure from the company's previous open-door policy established in 2018, which allowed anyone to enter without buying anything. The revised policy aims to enhance customer experience and address safety concerns, banning behaviors such as drug use and harassment while prioritizing paying customers. Critics have labeled the move as greedy, following public backlash amid declining sales and operational challenges. The change comes as CEO Brian Niccol seeks to revitalize the brand and restore its identity as a community space. Employees will receive training to enforce these new rules, with law enforcement involved if necessary.