Starbucks (Istock photo, freepik)
Starbucks is closing 16 stores across the United States after store executives reported an increase in drug use among customers and foreigners as well as an increase in crime in some areas. Six Starbucks branches will close in the company’s hometown, Seattle, and another six will close in the Los Angeles metro area.
Two Starbucks restaurants will stop operating in Portland, Orange, while one store each will close in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., according to the Wall Street Journal. Store managers complained to company executives that employees did not feel safe amid a wave of assaults, thefts and drug use in and around the area.
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The company responded by giving store managers discretion to prevent free access to the store’s restrooms, which are open to the public in accordance with the company’s policy, according to the Seattle Times. Last month, Starbucks interim CEO Howard Schultz said the company was reconsidering its “open services” policy due to growing concerns about public safety.
CEO Schultz clarified: “We must provide a safe environment for our people and our customers. The mental health crisis in the country is severe, acute and worsening. “Managers will also have more room for maneuver in reorganizing seating and even adjusting operating hours to address employee safety concerns.
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