Starbucks is set to close hundreds of stores across the U.S., including several in the Chicago area, as part of its restructuring plans. Signs announcing closures are appearing at affected locations, and employees are being informed via emails. CEO Brian Nicole, who took leadership in September 2024, has emphasized improving store experiences while the company faces a $1 billion restructuring cost from these closures.
Despite having over 17,000 U.S. stores, Starbucks’ North American sales fell by 2% in the third quarter. Nicole plans to focus on closing low-performing locations and renovating more than 1,000 stores in the next fiscal year. The decision has faced backlash from the union representing baristas, as many workers fear layoffs. Customers expressed disappointment over the closures, particularly in local community-oriented stores.
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