In response to growing concerns over the spread of the coronavirus, Starbucks has made the decision to temporarily halt the use of personal cups, mugs, and tumblers in all its North American locations. This move aims to mitigate potential virus transmission as the pandemic fears intensify.
The Impact on Loyal Customers
For loyal Starbucks customers, using a refillable mug was an excellent way to save money while contributing to environmental sustainability. With each visit, patrons could enjoy a 10-cent discount on their favorite beverages and help lessen waste that typically ends up in landfills. However, during this period, Starbucks will serve drinks in disposable cups, though customers can still bring their own mugs to claim the discount.
Company’s Commitment to Health and Safety
Rossan Johnson, the new president of company-operated businesses, expressed optimism in an open letter, stating, “We are hopeful this will be a short-lived situation.” The company is committed to maintaining transparency and prioritizing the health of both its employees and customers.
Enhanced Cleaning Protocols
Additionally, Starbucks is ramping up cleaning protocols in all stores and has suspended all business-related air travel for its employees through the end of the month. Corporate meetings are being shifted to virtual formats to minimize in-person gatherings. The duration of the ban on personal cups remains uncertain, but public health experts warn that the U.S. could face a significant outbreak, particularly in environments with high foot traffic like Starbucks. COVID-19 has already proven lethal in other parts of the world, with a mortality rate exceeding 3 percent for those infected.
Expert Recommendations
To safeguard against the virus, experts recommend regular hand washing, avoiding face-touching, and seeking medical advice if symptoms such as fever or breathing difficulties appear.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, Starbucks has paused personal cup refills to address coronavirus concerns, prioritizing customer and employee health through enhanced cleaning and operational adjustments. This situation is expected to be temporary as the company navigates the challenges posed by the pandemic.