Starbucks Reverses Open-Door Policy in North America Under Brian Niccol, Requires Purchase to Linger

Jan 14, 2025, 12:05 AM

Starbucks Corp. has reversed its 2018 open-door policy, now requiring customers to make a purchase to linger in its cafes or use its restrooms across North America. The new code of conduct, which will be posted in all company-owned stores, also bans discrimination, harassment, consumption of outside alcohol, smoking, vaping, drug use, and panhandling. Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson stated that the new rules aim to prioritize paying customers and create a better environment for everyone, aligning with policies at many other retailers. The policy change comes under the leadership of new Chairman and CEO Brian Niccol, who is focused on revitalizing the chain's sagging sales and recapturing the community coffeehouse atmosphere. The reversal follows incidents of safety concerns, including drug use, that led to the closure of 16 stores in 2022.