Big Changes Coming to Maine Starbucks Locations Soon

Several policies will soon be addressed and changed at Starbucks locations across the country, and those changes will also affect our locations in Maine.

Get our free mobile app

Here in Maine, we love change when it makes things better and try to see the positive in everything. But at the same time, fully embracing change isn’t always easy, and sometimes it takes a little longer to accept.

Getty Images

Alright, so what are the major changes coming to Starbucks locations in Maine?

According to CNN, Starbucks is bringing back some old policies to restore its classic coffee house feel. Starting Monday (February 3rd, 2025), U.S. and Canadian locations will once again have condiment bars, and baristas will hand-write customers' names on cups with Sharpies.

Getty Images

These changes come as CEO Brian Niccol works to boost sales and improve customer experience after recent declines.

Niccol previously stated that both customers and baristas support these updates, as they help streamline service and improve efficiency.

Getty Images

The company also launched a new TV ad highlighting handwritten notes and slightly updated its name to ‘Starbucks Coffee Company.’

Additionally, the directive states that most, if not all, paying customers can now receive free refills on hot or iced coffee and tea when dining in—a perk that was previously reserved for loyalty members. Starbucks is also tightening its store policies by requiring a purchase to use seating or restrooms while banning panhandling, vaping, and outside alcohol.

So there you have it—Starbucks is bringing back classic features like handwritten cup names and free refills for most customers while enforcing stricter policies on seating, restrooms, and conduct.

What are your thoughts on Starbucks embracing these changes and committing to a return to policies that pre-dated the COVID-19 pandemic? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

Festive to Controversial: Looking Back at Starbucks Holiday Cup Designs From Every Year

What was once a fairly plain white cup has turned into an annual holiday tradition for some coffee lovers. Here are some of the most remembered Starbucks holiday cup designs over the years.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

Most Popular Ski Mountains to Learn How to Ski or Snowboard in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont

These are the best ski mountains to learn how to ski or snowboard in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Gallery Credit: Logan

The Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles in Maine

It's very possible that the car you're driving around every day is one of the most targeted vehicles in our Pine Tree State to steal, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

Gallery Credit: Jordan Verge

Which Peanut Butter Brands Should Maine Shoppers Avoid?

While it's often marketed as a healthy addition to your after noon snack or morning smoothie, there are some hidden ingredients that should be avoided in many of the popular brands.

Gallery Credit: Sydney Ducharme

The 5 Best Places to Retire in Maine

In a recent publication, the personal finance website Insider Monkey has determined the best places in America to retire; additionally, Insider Monkey has also broken it down state-by-state, including in our Pine Tree State.

Gallery Credit: Jordan Verge