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Thu, 22 Oct 2026

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 No purchase, no seats: Starbucks China rolls out new policy

Starbucks says it is improving customers' in-store experience as it competes with homegrown rivals.
Starbucks China Introduces "Purchase to Sit" Policy Across All Stores The policy, which went into effect on Thursday, makes it mandatory for customers to make a purchase if they want to sit in Starbucks cafes. All 8,000 stores across China are affected by the new rule, aimed at improving the in-store experience for customers. Starbucks said the move was necessary due to stiff competition from homegrown brands like Luckin Coffee. The company has been facing criticism and complaints about non-paying seat-hoggers and other undesirable behavior from customers worldwide. Many Chinese social media users have welcomed the policy, citing issues with overcrowding and people taking up seats without making a purchase. Similar policies have been implemented in other Starbucks locations, including stores in South Korea and North America.