In efforts to contain the outbreak of coronavirus, Starbucks has announced its retail stores in Canada and the USA are moving to mobile-order only for two weeks.
Starbucks says it will pause seating in all its company-owned stores, including patio and café areas, removing people from hanging around the coffee shops.
“Customers can still walk up and order at the counter, through the “order ahead” feature in the Starbucks app, via the drive thru and use delivery,” explains Starbucks.
“As we all know, the situation with COVID-19 is extremely dynamic and we will continue to review the facts and science and make the proactive decisions necessary to protect our partners, customers and communities,” said Rossann Williams, executive vice president and president, U.S. company-operated business and Canada, in a statement.
Locations will also have a “modified condiment bar” at all stores, along with modified “order ahead” handoff areas depending on location. High traffic locations will be temporarily closed, including those at malls and university campuses as well.
For Starbucks locations in “communities with high clusters of COVID-19 cases,” stores will be temporarily closed or have reduced operating hours.
If you want Starbucks, you’ll need to use the company’s iOS or Android app to order ahead, then pick up your drink. The app supports Apple Pay for in-app payments, making it really easy to order ahead.
