If you’re planning to travel abroad at the end of the month or later this year, you might notice a change at Starbucks. Starting January 27, the coffee chain will require customers to make a purchase before using its facilities.
As reported by BBC News, Starbucks is reversing a six-year-old policy that meant visitors did not need to buy something to access restrooms in its North American cafes. This decision is part of a “Back to Starbucks” strategy aimed at improving customer experience and boosting sales.
Announced by the company’s newly appointed CEO, Brian Niccol. He said his goal is to enhance the overall experience for Starbucks customers, including plans to improve both the menu and coffee shop environment.
Starbucks spokesperson told BBC News: “Implementing a Coffeehouse Code of Conduct… is a practical step that helps us prioritise our paying customers who want to sit and enjoy our cafes.
“These updates are part of a broader set of changes we are making to enhance the cafe experience as we work to get back to Starbucks.”
In addition to this policy update, Starbucks is introducing new menu items and bringing back a fan favorite this year. For the first time in the UK, Starbucks is launching a pistachio-flavored drink range, which includes the Pistachio Velvet Latte and the Iced Pistachio Latte.
These new offerings combine a white chocolate pistachio-flavour sauce with Starbucks’ classic espresso and oat drink, crowned with a layer of pistachio-flavoured cream cold foam. The hot beverage starts at £4.65, while the iced version begins at £4.70, boasting a similar concoction served chilled and topped with the same creamy foam.