Dozens of NYC Starbucks Locations Set to Close Amid Nationwide Layoffs

For many New Yorkers, the morning ritual of grabbing a latte from the local Starbucks is as routine as the city's hustle. But that daily stop could soon become a thing of the past for some, as the coffee giant announced plans to shutter dozens of locations across the Big Apple amid a broader wave of nationwide closures.

Starbucks revealed on Thursday that it will lay off approximately 900 corporate employees and close underperforming stores throughout the United States. In New York City alone, the closures will impact spots in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn—some of which are unionized. The company hasn't specified exact addresses yet, but the news has already stirred concern among workers and regulars alike.

These changes come as Starbucks grapples with shifting consumer habits and economic pressures. Post-pandemic, foot traffic in urban areas like NYC has fluctuated, and the rise of remote work has hit coffee chains hard. Unionization efforts at Starbucks stores, particularly in New York, have added another layer of complexity, with labor disputes highlighting issues like wages and working conditions.

While the closures aim to streamline operations and refocus on high-performing locations, they raise questions about the future of community hubs in dense neighborhoods. For the affected employees, the layoffs represent a tough blow in an already challenging job market. Starbucks has promised support for those impacted, including severance and job placement assistance.

As the details unfold, New Yorkers might find themselves seeking out that next caffeine fix a bit farther away. For the full story and updates on specific locations, check the original reporting from amNY.