Starbucks requires mandatory consumption to occupy seats in cafes in China

Starbucks China will require customers to make a purchase to occupy seats in its cafes, starting Thursday. This policy aims to address issues with non-paying customers occupying tables for extended periods. Reactions among Chinese consumers are mixed, with some supporting the rule while others believe it harms the brand's image. The company plans to implement the rule flexibly, especially for those in need. Similar policies have been seen in the U.S. and Canada, where Starbucks reinstated purchase requirements in early 2025 after previous controversies. The move raises questions about the brand's identity as a social space amid increasing competition from local brands.