Starbucks Reverses Open-Door Policy, Now Requiring Purchases for Restroom Access and Seating

Starbucks has announced it will reverse its open-door policy after nearly seven years, requiring customers to make a purchase if they wish to use restrooms or remain in its stores. The coffee giant unveiled a new code of conduct on Monday, set to be posted in all company-owned North American locations. The policy will prohibit discrimination, harassment, outside alcohol, smoking, vaping, drug use, and panhandling.

This shift marks a significant departure from the open-door policy Starbucks introduced in 2018, following the controversial arrest of two Black men at a Philadelphia store. The incident, which sparked widespread backlash and was filmed, led the company to change its approach toward non-paying customers.

The new rules are being implemented under Starbucks’ CEO Brian Niccol, who was hired from Chipotle last year. Niccol has committed to making Starbucks stores “inviting places to linger,” while focusing on revitalizing the brand and restoring its image as the nation’s “community coffeehouse.”