Starbucks extends free refill policy to all in-store customers

On By Littum

  • Starbucks is extending its free refill policy to non-rewards members with reusable cups.
  • Customers in participating stores will be entitled to a refill of many brewed coffees and teas.
  • Starbucks is also reversing its open-door policy, limiting facilities to paying customers and staff.

Starbucks is extending its free refill policy to all customers at participating stores as part of its new code of conduct that goes into effect on January 27.

Non-rewards members of the coffee giant will soon be able to receive refills at no extra cost as long as their beverage is prepared in a clean reusable cup or utensil. They must also order in store and within the same visit.

Offer includes hot and iced coffee and tea, but excludes flavored iced tea, cold brew, nitro cold brew, iced lemonade and its Refreshers.

Starbucks Rewards members were previously the only ones who could get a free refill on their order. From February 12, loyal customers must also use a reusable cup or ceramic in-house mug to be eligible for a refill.

The Seattle-headquartered coffee chain said Monday it would also back side its open door policy.

The policy was first introduced in 2018 after Starbucks faced widespread criticism over an incident in which two men holding a business meeting were arrested at a Philadelphia location after they tried to use the restroom without making a purchase.

The policy allows non-paying guests to use store facilities, such as bathrooms, indoor common areas and patios.

From January 27, these spaces will be reserved for staff, customers and people accompanying those making purchases only.

“Implementing a Coffeehouse Code of Conduct is something that most retailers already have and is a practical step that helps us prioritize our paying customers who want to sit and enjoy our cafes or need to use the toilet during their visit, ” said Starbucks representative Jaci Anderson. BI in an emailed statement.

The changes come as new CEO Brian Niccol articulates his vision to make Starbucks coffee shops places where people want to hang out again.