As of today, smokers are no longer allowed to smoke within 25 feet from the popular coffee chain, Starbucks and its outdoor seating areas. According to the new signs, the Seattle-based store has banned outdoor smoking in over 7,000 stores throughout the United States and Canada. Despite the quiet approach Starbucks took in placing this ban, since no one really knew about it before the signs went up, some people believe that this ban will not draw that much criticism.
According to AdWeek, reported by NPR, "since smoking bans have swept the nation in the last decade, it's doubtful there will be a huge backlash for the brand. In fact, there's been an online movement from Starbucks consumers called for the newly revealed policy since at least 2009."
The new signs read "Smoking will be restricted within 25 feet of the store and within outdoor seating areas."
While this ban goes into effect, advocacy group, Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, continues to press Starbucks to ban people with loaded guns from entering the coffee shop.