Starbucks Implements New Restroom, Refill Policies Amid Decline

Starbucks just might be suffering from its own success. For decades, the worldwide brand has championed coffee shops as “third places,” a comfortable area away from work and home that you can stay in.

Long gone are the days of co-founder Zev Siegl manning the first Starbucks in Seattle by himself. In 2025, the chain is a behemoth, inspiring so many local imitators that incentive to go to Starbucks itself has decreased. Coffee shops are more popular than ever now, and Dallas alone has so many great ones that we were able to designate one for each Taylor Swift era. We also published our favorites earlier this month, sans generic pop music.

It appears Starbucks is trying to change its reputation.

According to a Monday press release, the company will be serving all “for here” drinks in ceramic mugs, glasses or personal cups. Customers who order hot brewed or iced coffee or tea will also be able to enjoy free refills of their drink during the visit. In addition, Starbucks is re-introducing a condiment bar with milk, creamer and various sweeteners.

It doesn’t seem like much, but certain writers who may or may not be writing this piece have consistently chosen to work at local spots like Full City Rooster or Well Grounded Coffee Community because of the availability of ceramic cups.

But for all the moves to make Starbucks seem less corporate and more homey, the chain is also announcing certain rules that might upset some customers. Earlier this month, the company reversed a policy that allowed anyone to hang out or use the restroom at stores without making a purchase. The decision sparked a debate over ethics, with critics noting that the policy will target and push out homeless people looking for a brief respite.

These sudden changes to Starbucks policy come about just months after CEO Brian Niccol assumed command of the company. He left Chipotle in September 2024 to take over the coffee giant. Starbucks has faced four straight fiscal quarters of decline. According to Reuters, Niccol's appointment took place as Starbucks shares were down 20%. Since his appointment, it has plummeted 28%. Interesting figures for a company that reportedly just handed its new CEO $96 million.