In 2018, Starbucks implemented an open-door policy after a widely criticized incident in Philadelphia, where two Black men were arrested in a store while waiting for a meeting without making a purchase. This policy allowed anyone to use Starbucks cafes as a welcoming “third place” — a safe, inclusive space to sit, access Wi-Fi, use restrooms, and find shelter, without the requirement to buy anything.

However, on Jan 27, 2025 Starbucks reversed this policy, requiring customers to make a purchase in order to remain in stores or use facilities. While the company cites the need to improve customer experience and ensure safety, this decision has created serious challenges for many.

Challenges

Starbucks locations often act as vital urban refuges — especially for students, remote workers, vulnerable populations, and those facing homelessness or extreme weather. The reversal of the open-door policy:

• Pushes out those who relied on Starbucks for safe indoor space, particularly during inclement weather or difficult circumstances.
• Contradicts the idea of Starbucks as a community gathering space and erodes public trust in the brand’s commitment to inclusion.
• Creates a more transactional atmosphere, where only paying customers are welcomed, diminishing the broader social value Starbucks once embodied.

We call on Starbucks to:

• Reinstate the open-door policy across all company-owned stores, allowing anyone to use seating, restrooms, and Wi-Fi without requiring a purchase.
• Provide staff with comprehensive training to ensure safety and address any behavioral concerns without excluding vulnerable populations.
• Collaborate with local organizations and communities to balance inclusivity with operational needs.

If reinstated, Starbucks would once again serve not only customers but communities — creating safer, more welcoming spaces that balance business interests with public good.

Sign this petition to urge Starbucks to reinstate back the open-door policy and demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity and community support once more.