There used to be a time when Starbucks used to be a supreme hangout spot for people. The big time appeal was that you could go there with your friends and hangout with them. The added bonus was buying coffee or special drinks while you're there. But it wasn't a requirement. It was a third space where people could exist with one another without being hassled. Now, they want to make it just another business space with overrated coffee.
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Recently, CNN reports a statement from Starbucks regarding their new policies. There is no using the restroom or hanging out at the establishment without buying something first. This essentially prohibits any homeless person seeking a rest stop, any person desperately needing the restroom, or just anyone seeking a third space to exist without paying money. A Starbucks spokesperson writes in a statement, calling this shift a "practical step that helps us prioritize our paying customers who want to sit and enjoy our cafes or need to use the restroom during their visit. By setting clear expectations for behavior and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone."
I Can't Stand The New, Inhuman Starbucks Policies
First, I would like to say: Who truly needs Starbucks in 2025? There are far too many coffee spots that are clearly better quality. Moreover, they don't even have a price advantage over a lot of local spots and various alternatives. Sometimes, they can be just as expensive as your typical bougie cafe. So really, what's the selling point?
Ideally, it was to have a rest stop if you ever needed it. Maybe you could invite your friends for coffee or just have another place to exist that wasn't home or work. But Starbucks is choosing to be so grossly inhuman and hateful towards civilians. This is reflective of a lot of modern living in America today. You're effectively useless if you aren't coughing something up out of your wallet. It's a depressing existence that CEOs don't care whether or not we live or die. Really, all that matters to them is if you have something to contribute to their billionaire fund. Their greed is stopping us from being able to truly live in the world.
