Starbucks Stores Now Require Purchases for Entry and Bathroom Use

Ever wanted to use the restroom at Starbucks without buying anything? Well, think again. The coffee giant has changed its policies, requiring customers to make a purchase before they can use the store's facilities. This new rule is part of a bigger push by the company's new CEO, Brian Niccol, to boost sales and improve the overall atmosphere in their stores. Starbucks has always been known for its welcoming environment, but things changed in 2018 after an incident in Philadelphia where two black men were arrested for not buying anything. Since then, stores have faced issues with disruptive behavior, leading to the closure of 16 locations across the US. To combat this, Starbucks is now enforcing stricter rules. The new code of conduct, which will be displayed in all company-owned North American stores, bans activities like smoking, vaping, and panhandling. It's designed to prioritize paying customers and create a safer space for everyone. Violators will be asked to leave, and in serious cases, police may be called. Employees will be trained to enforce these new rules. The goal is to make Starbucks a more comfortable and secure place for both customers and staff. But some might wonder if this policy will make the coffee chain less accessible to those who can't afford to buy something every time they need to use the restroom.