Starbucks has implemented a new policy that requires customers to make a purchase in order to use their bathrooms, reversing their previous “open bathroom” policy. The decision comes after a public incident in 2018 where two Black men were denied access to a bathroom while waiting for a friend, leading to a PR disaster for the coffee chain. Interim CEO Howard Schultz cited safety concerns from people with mental health issues as a reason for the new policy. The change has sparked debate among customers and employees, with some expressing concerns about the impact on homeless individuals. Starbucks, which has faced declining sales, is undergoing a strategic overhaul under new leadership. The company’s motto of “nurturing the human spirit… one neighborhood at a time” contrasts with the new restrictive policy. The shift in bathroom access at Starbucks locations highlights the challenges faced by retailers in providing public restrooms in a country where they are sparse. The company aims to prioritize the spaces for paying customers, but the decision has raised questions about discrimination and inclusivity. Despite the change, Starbucks remains committed to its image as a community gathering place, as it navigates the shifting landscape of retail and hospitality.
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