A few days ago, it was announced that the Starbucks on Wood Street located in the Palatine Metra Station will be closing permanently on January 4th, 2021. Myself, as well as many others, are extremely shocked and saddened by this news. This Starbucks was where I worked my first job in high school as a barista, where I made countless memories during my time working there and long after. The outdoor patio area has been a beloved community area for people to sit with their drink or socialize with friends and family for many years.

I am starting this petition not only for the long-time customers of this store, but on behalf of the absolutely wonderful baristas that work here, who would be sorely missed should this location close permanently. Before working as a barista myself, I was a regular customer of Starbucks and I can tell you first hand that it makes a huge difference in customer satisfaction if the person crafting your drink cares about their job. I have had nothing but exceptional service at this store and one of the baristas even took the time to ask other partners if they had seen me because they wanted to make sure I was okay after I had not come in for a period of time. Nobody has EVER done that at any other Starbucks location I've frequented and it's something that stands out to me. I honestly can't imagine not coming in to order my coffee at this store anymore and having the baristas genuinely ask me how I am doing. 

I realize that due to the ongoing COVID pandemic, commuters like myself are not using the Metra at this time to go to their jobs or going downtown for leisure, so this location wouldn't be expected to have the same volume of sales or foot traffic as other Starbucks in the area. However, commuting will become a common occurrence again and if this location closes, people will have nowhere to grab a convenient quick breakfast or coffee before hopping on the train. Not to mention, this specific location was very busy up until COVID hit, specifically during the morning rush hour train times. It also wasn't unusual for there to be a line out the door in the summer months and for the patio to be completely full, especially during the Palatine farmer's market weekends. 

I would like to petition that this location stay open and remain an integral part of the Palatine community as it has for over a decade, for both the loyal customers and the baristas of store 2559. 

Thank you for your time,

Ava