Starbucks Prohibition Of Consumers Bringing Foods From Outside All Outlets

JAKARTA - Starbucks South Korea imposed a ban on food consumption from outside nationally in all of its outlets this week, with the aim of reducing disruptions caused by customers carrying and eating food from elsewhere.

The outlet network, operated by the Shinsegae Group, began posting announcements on Monday at 2,050 outlets across South Korea, stating all food and drinks from outside are prohibited from being consumed indoors.

However, this rule excludes food and drinks for babies.

This step marks the first time this large chain of cafes and desserts has implemented the ban. However, the company noted this is not the first time they have made a similar request.

"Previously, we asked our customers not to eat pungent foods. The notification has existed since before the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020. However, the warning is rather subjective and somewhat unclear. This time, we introduced the ban in a much clearer way," said a company official, launching The Korea Times October 15.

The move follows a series of online posts showing customers eating food in Starbucks outlets.

Viral photos on social media show dishes such as tteokbokki (hot rice cake), instant noodles, gimbap (rolling seaweed rice) and fried chicken.

The company has also been dealing with issues caused by customers abusing the shop space and causing inconvenience to others. In August, the company began banning customers from using its cafe as a private "office" by bringing items such as desktop computers, printers and extension cables.

This problematic behavior stems partly from Starbucks Korea's operational philosophy, which traditionally encourages customers to use their stores freely.

Previously, Starbucks allowed food and drinks from outside as long as it smelled "tolerated." The company even promoted its cafe as a "third room" other than home and workplace which was designed to be comfortable and easily accessible.

"We stick to our goal of becoming a 'third room' for our customers," the official said.

"Our latest ban only aims to clarify the rules and make our store more comfortable for everyone."