Starbucks Enforces New Bathroom Policy: No Purchase, No Restroom Access

Starbucks has introduced a new policy that requires customers to make a purchase in order to stay in its cafes or use the restrooms. This policy is part of a larger Code of Conduct and will be rolled out later this month at all Starbucks locations, as reported by The New York Times, citing an email sent to employees.

This change coincides with the leadership of Brian Niccol, who joined from Chipotle last year to help revitalize the struggling coffee chain. Niccol aims to transform Starbucks locations into “inviting places to linger,” with the intention of re-establishing the brand as the country’s “community coffeehouse.”

According to Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson, the new rules are intended to prioritize paying customers. She noted that many other retailers already have similar policies in place. “We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable in our stores,” Anderson explained. “By setting clear expectations for behavior and the use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone.”

What is the New ‘No Bathroom’ Policy?

The new ‘no bathroom’ policy at Starbucks requires that customers must make a purchase to stay in the cafes, patios, or use the restrooms. This is a change from the previous open-access policy established in 2018, which allowed anyone to access these facilities without needing to buy anything.

Additionally, the new guidelines will outline expected behaviors from customers. Actions that are prohibited include discrimination, harassment, smoking, and panhandling. If customers violate these rules, they will be asked to leave, and employees may involve law enforcement if necessary.

Why Change It?

Starbucks changed its policy to create a better environment for paying customers. According to a company spokesperson quoted by The New York Times, the implementation of a Coffeehouse Code of Conduct is a practical step to prioritize customers who want to enjoy their time in the cafes or need to use the restroom during their visit.

To prepare for this new policy, store managers are being given 40 hours to get both staff and stores ready, with the implementation scheduled to start on January 27. Training sessions will also address other new practices, such as asking customers if they want their drink for here or to go and offering unlimited free refills of hot or iced coffee to those who decide to stay.

Why Change The Policy Now?

The change in policy comes after a statement made by former CEO Howard Schultz in 2022, where he indicated that the company was reevaluating its open-bathroom policy. The previous policy was established following a 2018 incident in Philadelphia, where two Black men were arrested for sitting in a Starbucks without making a purchase, leading to widespread protests and calls for boycotts.

At that time, Howard Schultz expressed a desire for people not to feel “less than” if they were denied access. He stated, “We don’t want to become a public bathroom, but we’re going to make the right decision a hundred percent of the time and give people the key.” However, since then, employees and customers have faced issues with unruly and dangerous behavior in stores. In 2022, Starbucks closed 16 locations across the country due to repeated safety concerns, including drug use and disruptive behavior that threatened staff.

Additionally, the policy shift is part of Starbucks’ broader strategy to tackle declining sales, falling stock prices, and pressure from activist investors. This decision is being implemented under the leadership of Brian Niccol, who became CEO in September of the previous year.

Brian Niccol’s Leadership.

Under Brian Niccol’s leadership, Starbucks has faced significant challenges, including falling sales and backlash from consumers. One major controversy involved allegations linking the company to Israel, sparked by a hoax letter claiming that Starbucks funded the Israeli military. The company has firmly denied these claims, stating that it does not support any government or military operations in West Asia.

Criticism has also been directed at Niccol for his decision to commute nearly 1,000 miles from his home in Newport Beach, California, to Starbucks’ headquarters in Seattle via corporate jet. This decision was viewed by many as contradictory to Starbucks’ public commitment to environmental sustainability.

As a result of these controversies, Starbucks reported a 6 percent decline in comparable store sales in the US for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, contributing to a 3 percent decline in total revenues. These trends highlight the challenges the company is facing as it attempts to navigate public perception and maintain its market position.

Call To Law Enforcement.

Under the new policy, Starbucks has implemented a code of conduct that clearly states that violators will be asked to leave the premises. In cases where individuals do not comply, the store may call law enforcement if necessary.

Starbucks Unveiled New Strategy 

Starbucks has unveiled a new strategy in response to its financial challenges, which were highlighted in its latest earnings report showing a 6 percent decline in comparable store sales in the US for the fourth quarter of 2024, contributing to a 3 percent decline in total revenues. 

Brian Niccol has promised a strategic overhaul aimed at regaining customer loyalty. Some key initiatives include simplifying the menu, halting price increases, eliminating extra charges for non-dairy milk options, and ensuring that orders are delivered within four minutes. Additionally, the bathroom rule is part of a broader series of changes announced by Starbucks to attract customers and increase sales. These efforts reflect the company’s commitment to addressing customer concerns and improving the overall experience.