Starbucks to reopen stores for to-go service in May; 90% of stores open by June

FILE - A Jan. 12, 2017 file photo shows a Starbucks logo sign in the window of one of the chain's cafes. FILE - A Jan. 12, 2017 file photo shows a Starbucks logo sign in the window of one of the chain's cafes. Photo: Gene J. Puskar, AP Photo: Gene J. Puskar, AP Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Starbucks to reopen stores for to-go service in May; 90% of stores open by June 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

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In a small sign that life may be getting back to normal, Starbucks has released plans to reopen its stores in North America as early as next week.

According to a report from Nation's Restaurant News, 50% of the coffee giant's locations are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The company plans to reopen those stores gradually, with just 30 locations offering limited services starting May 4, and 90% of U.S. stores open and operating by June.

"As we begin the recovery process that requires ongoing monitoring to rapidly adapt and recover, we are well-adapted in our digital assets to expand service to customers and focus on the customer experience, beverage innovation and digital assets," said Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson during the company’s earnings conference call.

Seating in the reopened stores will not be provided to enforce social distancing, and enhanced sanitation protocols will still be in place. Before every shift, all employees will complete a health pre-check that includes taking their temperature. Employees will also be required to wear facial coverings and gloves are optional.

Starting May 4, U.S. and Canada Starbucks stores will gradually begin to welcome customers using the Starbucks App and a variety of store formats. https://t.co/8gnpmhlSZO — Starbucks News (@StarbucksNews) April 29, 2020

The company's digital assets, such as online and app-based ordering, and drive-thru options are expected to aid the company's reopening strategy by providing minimal contact between customers and employees. Curbside pickup is expected to start later in the summer.

"This [plan] allows us to regain the momentum we had prior to COVID. We expect to strengthen this competitive advantage through continued recovery and serve our community safely and with greater convenience," said Johnson.

The coffee giant reported low global sales in the first three months of the year as the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of many global locations. For the few stores that stayed open in the United States with delivery and drive-thru options, average sales dropped by 25%.

However, executives were optimistic the company could bounce back, as 98% of its stores in China have reopened since the peak of the pandemic has passed.

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