NEW YORK — Starbucks has rolled back its "open bathroom" policy, now requiring customers to make a purchase to use the restroom. In a new code of conduct, the coffee giant said its spaces, including cafes, patios, and restrooms, should be prioritized for paying customers — a policy typical of many retailers.

This shift comes after Starbucks faced backlash over bathroom access in 2018, when two Black men were denied entry to a restroom in Philadelphia, leading to a PR crisis. The company had since allowed anyone to use its bathrooms, but CEO Howard Schultz raised concerns in 2022 about safety issues, particularly with people facing mental health challenges.

At some locations, employees have expressed mixed reactions, with some fearing the policy will target certain groups, while others believe it will make the workplace safer and more manageable. Despite the changes, Starbucks continues to face challenges, including declining global revenues. The move reflects broader safety concerns and a strategic overhaul under the new CEO.