Starbucks is changing its rules around restrooms, Wi-Fi, more. What to know in Arizona

Starbucks is changing its rules around hanging out and using the free Wi-Fi and restrooms, officials said.

Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson told USA TODAY that the policy changes are focused on prioritizing paying customers.

“We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable in our stores,” Anderson told USA TODAY Tuesday. “Implementing a Coffeehouse Code of Conduct is something most retailers already have … This means our cafes, patios, and restrooms are for customers and partners. By setting clear expectations for behavior and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone.”

Here’s what Arizona coffee lovers need to know about the new customer code of conduct before visiting Starbucks.

What is changing at Starbucks?

Here’s what is changing at Starbucks:

• You must order something to hang out at Starbucks or use the coffee store’s Wi-Fi and restroom.
• The code of conduct also bans discrimination and harassment.
• No consumption of outside alcohol.
• No smoking, vaping or drug use.
• Panhandling was also banned in the new code of conduct.

According to Anderson, the company knows customers may need to use the restroom or log on to the Wi-Fi before they approach the counter to make a purchase.

“Of course that is okay – our code of conduct is simply about prioritizing our spaces for our customers during their visits and being clear about what is expected of individuals in our stores,” Anderson said.

When did the Starbucks open door policy begin?

The move reverses a rule change the coffee chain made in 2018 after a store manager called the police on two Black men when they didn’t order food or drinks at one of the chain’s Philadelphia stores.

In 2018, Donte Robinson and Rashon Nelson were arrested for trespassing in a racially charged incident at the Starbucks in an upscale downtown neighborhood on April 12. They were waiting to meet a third person for a business meeting.

The encounter, caught on video, sparked outrage over racial profiling, led to a discrimination lawsuit, and an apology from the company’s former CEO, Kevin Johnson, among other actions. Starbucks later reached a financial settlement with the men in May 2018. The company declined to release terms of the settlement.

Starbucks in Arizona

Arizona has the seventh-highest amount of Starbucks locations in the United States with more than 500 stores in the Grand Canyon State.

To find a store near you, visit the Starbucks store locator at starbucks.com/store-locator.