Starbucks recently rolled out a nationwide “all-are-welcome” policy in their stores, saying that anyone can spend time in its stores or use the restroom, even if they don’t buy anything. However, the coffee shop chain does not want their locations to become public restrooms. A company spokesperson told CNNMoney that it is asking all customers to behave in a way that “maintains a warm and welcoming environment.” Employees are advised to intercede if customers are disruptive and gave them a specific list of inappropriate behaviors that include smoking, using drugs or alcohol, sleeping or improperly using the facilities. Customers also need to keep their noise level at reasonable levels, and are not allowed to have personal hygiene issues that disrupt others. Nor are customers are not allowed to show or watch something inappropriate on a personal device. Starbucks told their employees to consider whether they’d be distrubed by the behavior in question if it was coming from a different customer, and says they should consult colleagues in case they have questions.
The new policy comes after two black men were recently arrested for trespassing at Starbucks in Philadelphia after store employees called in the police. Right after the pair arrived, one of the men had asked to use the bathroom, but an employee said it was only for paying customers. The pair sat in the store for just a few minutes without ordering anything, waiting for a business meeting before police arrived. No charges were filed.
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