Starbucks China Says Buy Something Before Taking a Seat
Tuesday, October 27, 2026170 words3 minutes195 reads
Starbucks introduced a new seating policy across roughly 8,000 mainland China stores on 22 October 2026, according to the report. People must buy something before using a seat. The company says it wants to improve customers' experience when busy cafés have few tables available.
The change tests Starbucks' idea of a third place: somewhere beyond home and work or school where people can meet, read or relax. However, space is limited. Paying customers may struggle to find seats while people who have bought nothing occupy tables. Many Chinese customers supported the policy online.
The seating rule is not an entrance ban. Staff should offer special help to visitors who need it, including pregnant people and those with limited mobility. Starbucks has announced no general time limit and is not charging by the hour. A purchase is required, but it is not rent for a table.
With cheaper local competitors offering convenient app ordering, Starbucks is focusing on the experience inside its stores. It also plans more staff and store improvements.
