Starting this week, all 8,000 Starbucks locations in China now require customers to make a purchase in order to occupy seating areas within the cafes.
The policy, implemented across the chain’s entire Chinese network, aims to enhance the in-store experience by addressing challenges posed by customers occupying space without purchasing goods. The move comes amid intensified competition from local coffee brands, notably Luckin Coffee.
Social media users in China have largely welcomed the change, with many commenting that it addresses overcrowding and improves accessibility for paying customers. “Finally, there won’t be peak periods where people are just sitting there not ordering anything, drinking Luckin coffee, playing games and yelling on the phone,” wrote one top-liked Weibo comment. Another user stated, “There’s nothing wrong with it. I’d feel awkward sitting there if I didn’t make a purchase. I’d rather leave the seats for those who made purchases and need the seats.”
The initiative aligns with global Starbucks’ efforts to manage non-paying patrons and maintain a welcoming environment for customers. Recent examples include restrictions on “bulky items” in South Korea to prevent seat-hogging with laptops, and in North America, the reversal of a long-standing open-door policy that allowed unaccompanied use of restrooms and seating. In China, a Sichuan province Starbucks café previously faced backlash for installing barriers to restrict outdoor seating access without purchase.
China is Starbucks’ second-largest market, though its growth has been challenged by Luckin Coffee’s dominance and more cost-effective offerings. In 2023, Luckin surpassed Starbucks as the country’s leading coffee chain. To navigate this competitive landscape, Starbucks China has announced plans to increase staffing, improve digital systems, and invest in customer service during peak hours. The company recently partnered with investment firm Boyu Capital, selling a 60% stake in its Chinese operations as part of a $4 billion deal.