Starbucks announced Monday it is reversing its 2018 open-door policy and will now require purchases for customers who want to hang out in the cafe or use its restrooms.
The new rules reverse an open-door policy put in place in 2018, after two black men were arrested at a Philadelphia Starbucks where they had gone for a business meeting. They bought nothing and the store ended up calling the police, leading to an outcry against the company.
The new code of conduct prohibits activities including discrimination, drug use, and panhandling, with violators facing potential removal and law enforcement intervention.
The policy shift comes under new CEO Brian Niccol’s leadership as the company aims to prioritize paying customers and address safety concerns that have led to store closures.