A Starbucks location in Studio City has removed its customer seating due to safety concerns.
A sign posted on the door of the store, situated at Ventura Boulevard and Vineland Avenue, indicates that the removal of seating is a temporary measure. The reasons behind this decision and the duration of the seating unavailability are not specified.
In a statement to Eyewitness News, a Starbucks spokesperson said: “Our local leaders are, and have always been, empowered to use the many resources at their disposal to modify store operations and create the best experience for our communities.
Our first priority is to ensure our partners are safe at work. We will continue to work to ensure that partners can focus on crafting exquisite beverages and creating connections in a safe, warm, and welcoming environment.”
ABC7 also contacted L.A. City Councilmember Nithya Raman, who represents the area, for comment but has not yet received a response.
The closure of this Starbucks is part of a broader trend, with six other Starbucks locations in the Los Angeles area also closed, attributed to safety issues. This situation is particularly notable given the ongoing unionization efforts at Starbucks’ U.S. stores.
The closures follow a similar pattern from last year, when six Starbucks locations across Southern California were shut down. At that time, the company cited vandalism, property theft, and rising crime as major reasons for the closures.
The locations that were previously closed include:
- Santa Monica & Westmount, West Hollywood
- Hollywood & Western, Los Angeles
- 1st & Los Angeles (Doubletree), Los Angeles
- Hollywood & Vine, Hollywood
- Ocean Front Walk & Moss, Santa Monica
- 2nd & San Pedro, downtown Los Angeles
