Any given afternoon, and until now, you could go to your nearest Starbucks and sit there without having to order anything at all. You could enjoy the atmosphere, plug in your laptop and just be there, it was more than just a coffee shop and it was something that defined Starbucks and put it ahead of its competitors, it was a space for meeting, working and relaxing, something like a little bubble. But now, that business model that seemed practically untouchable is going to change, and Starbucks has recently announced that they are going to eliminate their open-door policy, this means that the peaceful atmosphere that we enjoyed until now will only remain in our memory. What could have motivated the company to this change? We are going to tell you everything we know below.
What is Starbucks?
Maybe you’ve been under a rock and haven’t realized that Starbucks is one of the largest and most recognized coffee chains in the world. As you read, it was founded in 1971 and grew to become a giant that redefines the act of drinking coffee. Going to Starbucks becomes quite an experience for those who love coffee, and it’s also a very cute place to “pose” on social networks.
Currently, this chain has 30,000 locations around the world in more than 80 countries!
So, if you haven’t been to one of these coffee shops yet, we recommend that you go as soon as you can and see that it’s not just coffee, it’s much more.
Why are Starbucks changing their concept?
According to the company, and under the direction of Brian Niccol, they are focusing more on the comfort of customers, seeking and trying to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for everyone, so they are prioritizing the experience of customers who do go to Starbucks to consume, and this is complicated for them considering that dozens of people went to the coffee shops simply to be there (and not to consume). So, from their social networks they have also confirmed that they want to create an inclusive space but also make sure that the behaviour is appropriate.
Are there going to be new rules at Starbucks?
Yes, they have created a new code of conduct that will remain visible in all establishments in North America:
- They will force you to consume to stay in the premises or access the bathrooms.
- They will prohibit smoking, vaping, consuming drugs and alcohol, asking for money and any behaviour that includes harassment or discrimination.
- Employees will have the ability to ask offenders to leave the premises (and in more serious situations they may contact the police services)
Apparently, these changes come after an incident that generated a great debate and went viral: two black men were arrested in a Starbucks store in Philadelphia while they were having a “business” meeting. The images of what happened, as we say, went viral, and forced the company to face accusations of discrimination and to rethink its policies to avoid future controversies.
What do customers think about it?
Starbucks customers will probably support these rules, but many critics believe that these new rules will end up being exclusionary. It is a rather controversial measure for the simple fact that there will be a right of admission, but who controls that? The main problem is that this right could become a discriminatory act (based on colour, religion or sexual orientation). However, we cannot forget that Starbucks is a company and that the world we live in does not give you anything for free, so, being a company, its main motivation is to make money… But don’t worry, Starbucks will still serve your favourite coffee!