Starbucks and Coffee Bean Philippines’ temporary closure
It seems like we have to temporarily bid goodbye to the aroma of hot coffee while we study and work in front of our laptops.
As the government begins to implement its month-long Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine from 17 March 2020 to 13 April 2020 due to the spread of COVID-19, some of our favorite coffee shops too will have to pause brewing our favorite coffee beans.
To ensure the well-being of its employees and patrons, Starbucks Philippines has made the decision to temporarily close all of its branches in Luzon in light of the situation, effective 17 March.
UPDATE: As of 23rd March 2020, Starbucks Philippines is also temporarily closing its stores in Visayas and Mindanao.
Starbucks branches in Visayas and Mindanao to remain open
Its Visayas and Mindanao branches, though, will remain open until further notice.
Image credit: Starbucks Philippines
Starbucks fans were sad when they got hold of the news, but they were equally relieved that the coffee chain has made this difficult decision as it’s for the well-being of everyone. Netizen Mei Mei, for instance, said that she will miss her “daily caffeine and the usual warm smiles from the partners,” but she also believes the temporary closing will be “for the greater good.”
Image credit: Starbucks Philippines
Marikit Sibal mourned the news as “the saddest ever,” but praised the coffee shop chain for prioritizing the health and safety of the shop’s frontliners.
Employees will be given proper compensation
Fans were worried for the employees of the chain as the temporary closing might affect the staffs’ financial welfare. Thankfully, Starbucks Philippines assured us that they will be given proper compensation and health coverage during this crisis.
CBLTL is also temporarily closing branches nationwide
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Philippines has also decided to pause operations of its stores in light of the quarantine. But while Starbucks PH is only closing down its Luzon branches, CBTL PH decided to temporarily close all of its branches nationwide.
Image credit: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Philippines)
As of writing, there’s no word yet from CBTL how they will financially safeguard their employees who will be affected by the situation. But we hope that like Starbucks PH, they will also stay true to their commitment of brewing with a purpose.
Filipino coffee lovers all in this together
Coffee lovers will have to pause their favorite hobby of going to Starbucks and Coffee Bean outlets during this COVID-19 crisis. However, this month-long sacrifice is crucial in ensuring the well-being of everyone – us, our baristas, and everyone involved in crafting our favorite beverages.
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Cover image adapted from: Starbucks Philippines