Starbucks announced via an internal memo sent to staff on Sept. 24 that it would be closing 250 stores by the end of the week, or approximately 1% of its total stores in the U.S.
The letter, written by Chief Operating Officer Mike Grams, cited the "Back to Starbucks" plan, an effort put into place last year by CEO Brian Niccol which included tightening up menus, offering free refills on certain drinks for in-store diners and requiring employees to wear green aprons and write personalized messages on every to-go cup.
"While most are benefiting from this overall momentum, some coffeehouses continue to underperform despite the hard work and commitment of all of you," Grams wrote.
Employees at closing locations will be offered either the chance to
transfer stores or will be provided with severance support, according to Grams' letter.
Around this same time last year, Starbucks closed hundreds of stores including all of its pick-up only locations.
Which Starbucks stores are closing in Arizona?
As of Sept. 24, Starbucks had not provided a list of which stores would be closing.
Reach the reporter at eddie.fontanez@azcentral.com. Follow @ERFontanez on Instagram.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Starbucks is closing 250 stores. Will Arizona stores be affected?
