Starbucks Suspends the Use of Reusable Cups Amid Coronavirus Concerns

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As Starbucks lovers know, the chain offers a 10¢ discount for customers who bring in their own reusable cups. In an open letter to stakeholders, Rossann Williams, EVP and President, U.S. company-operated business and Canada, announced that Starbucks is pausing the use of personal cups and “for here” ware to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

First and foremost, the health and well-being of our partners and customers remains top of mind and our highest priority, and we will continue to act thoughtfully and courageously despite the disruption and uncertainty COVID-19 brings to our daily lives. We will continue to stay close to our partners and local health officials, and we are optimistic this will be a temporary situation.

Starbucks has also updated cleaning procedures across all locations nationwide, and the company has canceled all business-related air travel through the end of March. These changes, along with the suspended use of reusable cups, have already taken effect.

Starbucks is still honoring the 10¢ discount for anyone who brings in a personal cup or asks for “for here” ware, but all drinks will be served in disposable cups. To learn more about the precautionary steps the company has taken in response to this developing situation, you can read the open letter in its entirety here.