MD Starbucks To Require Face Coverings In Cafes Starting July 15

MARYLAND — Starting July 15, Starbucks will require all customers — across Maryland and nationwide — to wear masks or facial coverings when entering and ordering from inside its cafes, regardless of local or state guidelines governing the use of masks.

According to the company, the requirement applies to all cafes across the country and has no end date. Customers who do not want to wear a face covering can instead order in the drive-thru, use curbside pickup through the Starbucks app or place an order for delivery through Starbucks Delivers.

"The company is committed to playing a constructive role in supporting health and government officials as they work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19," Starbucks said on its website.

All stores currently use the “Clean, Safe and Ready” system, cleaning high touch surface areas as frequently, the company noted. Prior to starting every shift, all employees complete a pre-check, including taking their temperature. Team members also are required to wear facial coverings during their shifts and frequently wash their hands. They also have the option to wear gloves.

The policy has been met with both support and criticism. Customers threatened on Twitterto take their business elsewhere due to the face covering requirement, while others vowed to show support by wearing masks even in the drive-thru.

Starbucks has 50 locations in Maryland.