On Monday, Jan. 13, the world's largest coffeehouse chain announced that they are implementing a new step in their "Back to Starbucks" strategy with the hopes of making their cafes more "welcoming" -- to paying customers, that is.
A purchase will have to be made and a new code of conduct followed, to be able to use the cafe's toilets or sit and have a chat as of Jan. 27.
"We want to ensure our spaces are prioritized for use by our customers," a statement issued by Starbucks read.
"Our Coffeehouse Code of Conduct is something most retailers have and is designed to provide clarity that our spaces -- including our cafes, patios and restrooms -- are for use by customers and partners," the statement continued.
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"The code of conduct is displayed in our stores to remind customers of the role they play in creating a community coffeehouse that is inviting and welcoming," it concluded.
Starbucks' Code of Conduct bans alcohol bought outside from being consumed in their cafes across North America, while smoking and vaping are also off-limits.
The company also hopes to banish harassment, panhandling and discrimination.
Starbucks baristas have been instructed to ask anyone refusing to follow the new rules to leave and call the police if necessary.
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According to company communications viewed by the Wall Street Journal, free water will also be only given to customers and those accompanying them.
"We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable in our stores," spokesperson Jaci Anderson said per AP News. "By setting clear expectations for behavior and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone."
Back in 2018, Starbucks introduced an open-door policy after a video went viral of two men being arrested at a Philadelphia location. The manager called the police on the pair when they decided to have a business meeting without having made a purchase.
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However, in the years since the coffeehouse became open to all, customers have complained about long waits for the bathroom and unruly behavior.
Starbucks closed 16 stores across the country due to safety concerns including threats to staff and drug use in 2022.
Brian Niccol -- who was previously the head of Chipotle -- has been trying to turn around falling sales since he joined Starbucks as CEO last August.
"As I embark upon this journey, I am energized by the tremendous potential to drive growth and further enhance the Starbucks experience for our customers and partners while staying true to our mission and values," Niccol said in a statement at the time.
And Niccol previously promised to pause price increases for the remainder of the fiscal year.
"The approach we've taken right now is we're going to hit the pause button on any pricing for this fiscal year," Niccol shared on Good Morning America on Dec. 5. "I still think there's an opportunity for us to simplify the pricing architecture right now -- I don't love the fact that in our app right now, while you're doing this customization, it doesn't inform you what has happened to the price, so I want to get more transparent with the pricing."