Starbucks Reverses Open Door Policy, Buy Something or Leave

Are you going to stop by Starbucks to use the restroom, meet up with a friend, or browse the Internet? You’d be better off getting a cold brew or latte first.

The largest coffee company in the world started letting non-paying visitors use its facilities almost seven years ago.

Making a 180-degree turn Starbucks declared on Monday that all of its company-owned locations in North America will no longer have an open door policy. Those who enter the coffee magnet’s main doors are now required to order something from the menu in order to hang out or use the restroom, per the website guidelines.

The Seattle-based coffee business said that the new code of conduct, which will be displayed at its shops across the United States, will also prohibit panhandling, smoking, vaping, drug use, outside alcohol consumption, and discrimination or harassment.

According to CBS News, Starbucks representative Jaci Anderson stated that the goal of the policy change is to “help prioritize paying customers.”

“We want everyone to feel comfortable and welcome in our stores,” Anderson said to the outlet. “By setting clear expectations for behavior and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone.”

New leadership, new rule

Under the new leadership of Starbucks Chairman and CEO Brian Niccol, who promised in a statement on January 9 to increase sales, entice back consumers, and more, the new rule reversal has been implemented.

“Our stores have always been more than a place to get a drink….A visit to Starbucks is about connection and joy, and of course great coffee,” according to Niccol, who was hired from Chipotle in 2024. Many of our customers still experience this magic every day, but in some places − especially in the U.S. − we aren’t always delivering. It can feel transactional, menus can feel overwhelming, product is inconsistent, the wait too long or the handoff too hectic. These moments are opportunities for us to do better. “

“Today, I’m making a commitment: We’re getting back to Starbucks. We’re refocusing on what has always set Starbucks apart − a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather, and where we serve the finest coffee, handcrafted by our skilled baristas. This is our enduring identity.”

When did Starbucks start its “open door” policy?

The action overturns a rule modification the coffee business enacted in 2018 after two Black males failed to order food or drinks at one of its Philadelphia locations, prompting a store manager to contact the police.

Donte Robinson and Rashon Nelson were arrested for trespassing on April 12 of 2018 following a racially charged argument inside a Starbucks in a posh downtown area. They had a business appointment with a third party that they were awaiting.

A discrimination lawsuit, an apology from the company’s former CEO Kevin Johnson, and concern over racial profiling were among the outcomes of the videotaped incident.In May 2018, Starbucks and the guys came to a financial agreement. The terms of the settlement were not disclosed by the corporation.

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