Starbucks temporarily shifts to 'to go' model in US and Canada

Starbucks, that has been known to bring in continuous preventive measures since the Coronavirus outbreak is instituting a temporary move to a “to go” model for all of its locations in the U.S. and Canada.

As per the model, the outlet would close down seating in its cafe and patio areas will be in place for at least two weeks. Instead, Starbucks will rely on its app for ordering ahead, drive thru in certain locations, walk up counter and delivery.

Similarly, locations in “high-social gathering locations” like schools and malls will temporarily be closed. Same goes for communities that have been  hit with large clusters of COVID-19 cases.

EVP Rossann Williams in a statement says, “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.” Every community’s needs are incredibly different. We want to make sure we play a constructive role by taking responsible actions, in partnership with the CDC and local public health authorities, so we can continue to do what’s right for our partners and customers.”

Earlier in the week CEO Kevin Johnson laid out some pre-emptive plans aiming at prioritizing “the health and well-being of our customers and partners while also playing a constructive role in supporting local health officials and government leaders as they work to contain the virus.” This has been an informative move by the company regarding virus outbreak.

Banning reusable cups, restricting seating and implementing drive-thru are some of the other measures taken by Starbucks in the past month to help combat with Coronavirus. Starbucks’ Indian outlets must also consider this ‘to go’ model in its drive to help combat the virus.