If you’ve ever popped into Starbucks to meet a friend, use the restroom, or get some work done, I'm sure you've noticed the relaxed vibe.

But things are changing at the popular coffee spot, according to USA Today.

Starbucks announced purchase necessary to stay in store

Starbucks has announced you can no longer just hang out in its stores, just use the restroom or wifi without buying something.

Starbucks Opens Tatami-matted Tea-house Style Store In Historic Kyoto
Getty Images
loading...

For almost seven years, Starbucks welcomed anyone to go in and use the restroom, meet friends, and whatever even if you didn’t buy anything.

Starbucks "open door policy" has been reversed

Well, this "open-door" policy, is now being reversed.

The new policy is for all company-owned stores in North America.

Google
Google
loading...

Starbucks said the decision is to make the experience better for paying customers, while also ensuring a welcoming and safe environment for everyone.

Along with this change, Starbucks is also introducing a “Coffeehouse Code of Conduct” that includes guidelines for behavior.

94.5 PST logo
Get our free mobile app

It covers things like no smoking, no drug use, and no panhandling.

The rule change is to make a better experience for paying customers

The goal is to keep its spaces comfortable for customers and employees.

Starbucks’ spokesperson Jaci Anderson explained that while the new rules may seem stricter, they’re meant to make the Starbucks experience better for everyone.

Surfing the Web at Starbucks
Getty Images
loading...

They get you may need to use the restroom or Wi-Fi before ordering, but said they will be clear about what's expected from guests.

This policy shift is a reversal of a decision made back in 2018, when the company allowed non-paying customers to stay after an incident at a Philadelphia store.

READ MORE: Shocking history of the original Starbucks name & logo

So, the next time you visit Starbucks, remember: it’s best to grab a drink or snack first before you settle in to hang out.

Festive to Controversial: Looking Back at Starbucks Holiday Cup Designs From Every Year

What was once a fairly plain white cup has turned into an annual holiday tradition for some coffee lovers. Here are some of the most remembered Starbucks holiday cup designs over the years.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

Where the most drunk drivers are arrested in New Jersey

Ranked by county, this is where New Jersey police made the most DUI arrests from July 2023 through June 2024.

Gallery Credit: Rick Rickman

More From 94.5 PST