Customers who enter a company-owned Starbucks location in the U.S. will be required to wear a face covering starting next week, the coffee giant announced on Thursday.
In a blog post, Starbucks said it was “prioritizing the health and well-being of partners (employees) and customers” as it continues to navigate its re-opening during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company pointed out that in locations where a local government mandate regarding masks is not in place, customers have various options to place and pick up orders. Masks are not required in the drive-thru, and curbside pickup is available through the Starbucks app. Customers can also get their coffee fix via Starbucks Delivers.
Starbucks announced last month that because of the pandemic it is accelerating the rollout of its mobile-focused “Pickup” store concept designed for those who order ahead.
Find more information on the safety measures the company has taken during the health crisis in this guide for customers.
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee instituted a statewide order for mandatory face coverings and last week, in response to rising coronavirus cases around the state, ordered businesses not to serve customers who don’t wear masks.
