News Summary
Starbucks has announced the closure of several locations across the U.S., including at least one in Missouri City, Texas. Regular customers express disappointment, with some concerned about losing a familiar gathering place. Employees will have options for transfers, but around 900 jobs may be affected. The closures are part of Starbucks’ strategy to reduce store count amid declining sales and economic pressures. The company aims to adjust to consumer habits while maintaining its market presence.
Houston – Starbucks is set to close several locations across the United States, including an undisclosed number in the Houston area. The company has confirmed that a specific Starbucks in Missouri City, Texas, will cease operations by the end of the week. Customers at the Highway 6 and Dulles Starbucks received a notification about the closure, expressing gratitude for their loyalty.
Regular patrons of the affected store have voiced their disappointment. One customer noted that the Starbucks location has been an integral part of their family’s daily routine for five years. Another regular shared concerns about losing a space that provided a conducive environment for studying and enjoying drinks. While Starbucks corporate has not disclosed the exact locations slated for closure in Houston, the company will keep customers informed through on-site signage and email notifications.
Employees working at the stores that are closing will be given options for transfers to other locations wherever possible, or they may receive severance packages if relocation is not feasible. The decision to close these stores comes amid a broader strategy by Starbucks to reduce its North American store count by approximately one percent in the current fiscal year. Additionally, over 1,000 other coffeehouses will undergo renovations to enhance their appeal.
Economic factors are influencing these closures, including increased tariffs on coffee beans and changing consumer habits, which have impacted store performance. An economics professor from the University of Houston emphasized that while the closures may seem alarming, there is no need for panic regarding the broader economy, as consumers will still have access to coffee, albeit potentially from different venues.
A representative from Starbucks indicated that updates regarding store hours and closures would be made available through the company app. Current employees at the underperforming stores are being notified about layoffs and relocations, with approximately 900 jobs anticipated to be affected by this decision.
Starbucks has seen declining same-store sales for six consecutive quarters, which has prompted the company to reevaluate its operational strategies. The plan is to conclude the fiscal year with nearly 18,300 stores in the U.S. and Canada combined. In light of the store closures and workforce reductions, Working United, the union representing baristas, has criticized Starbucks executives regarding their compensation amidst the layoffs.
This shift in Starbucks’ approach reflects broader trends in the retail sector, as companies navigate the challenges of a dynamic market and changing consumer preferences. The chain aims to maintain its presence while adapting to the realities of the economic environment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Kicks Off Month-Long Boycott Against Major Retailers
Memorial Day: What to Expect This Year
McDonald’s Closes CosMc’s Locations Nationwide
Additional Resources
- KHOU: Houston Area Starbucks Locations Closing
- Chron: Starbucks Closes Houston Locations
- Express News: Texas Starbucks Closures
- Wikipedia: Starbucks
- Google Search: Starbucks closures news
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
