Starbucks to Close Up to 90 Pickup-Only Stores: End of Mobile-Order Experiment, Return to Traditional Coffeehouse

The Sun Exclusive: Starbucks Shifts Strategy

An exclusive report published by The Sun revealed that Starbucks plans to close or convert between 80 and 90 pickup-only and mobile-order-focused stores across the United States by the end of 2026. The decision is part of the broader “Back to Starbucks” turnaround strategy aimed at restoring the traditional coffeehouse atmosphere and improving customer interaction inside stores.

The pickup-only concept was introduced in 2019 to serve customers seeking fast mobile-order convenience, especially in busy urban areas. According to Starbucks leadership, the model did not create the kind of customer experience the company wants to emphasize moving forward.

CEO Brian Niccol’s Statement

CEO Brian Niccol previously stated that these stores became “overly transactional” and lacked the warmth and human connection associated with the Starbucks brand. Instead of relying on standalone pickup counters, Starbucks intends to integrate mobile ordering into standard café locations that include seating and traditional in-store service.

This shift reflects Niccol’s vision to return Starbucks to its roots as a community coffeehouse where human relationships matter, not just a fast pickup point.

States and Locations Most Affected

According to the report, stores in California, Illinois, New York, Texas, and Washington are among the most likely to be affected. Specific locations mentioned include:

• California: Los Angeles (Broadway & 8th), San Francisco (California St. & Drumm St.), Santa Monica (Main & Ashland).
• Illinois: Chicago (227 W. Monroe, Addison & Sheffield), Hyde Park (55th & Woodlawn).
• New York: Manhattan (40th & 8th, 42nd & Park, Broadway between 36th & 37th).
• Texas: Houston (City Centre, Hillcroft & US 59), Dallas (Victory Park Lane).
• Washington: Seattle (1st & Denny), Bellevue (4th & Bellevue Way).

Other cities including Nashville, Philadelphia, Miami, and Boston were also listed among potential closures or conversions.

What the “Back to Starbucks” Plan Includes

The company’s broader strategy includes several changes designed to make stores feel more welcoming and community-oriented:

• More seating and lounge-style café layouts
• Additional couches and power outlets
• Return of ceramic mugs for in-store drinks
• Reintroduction of self-serve milk and sugar stations
• Baristas writing messages on cups again instead of relying entirely on printed labels
• Continued support for mobile ordering through the Starbucks app

A Major Strategic Shift

The closures represent a major shift away from the fast-service urban pickup strategy Starbucks expanded during recent years. The company now appears focused on reinforcing its identity as a sit-down neighborhood coffeehouse rather than a purely convenience-based chain. Some pickup-only stores may close permanently, while others may be renovated and converted into traditional Starbucks cafés.

Customers will still be able to place mobile orders, but pickup will increasingly happen inside full-service cafés rather than dedicated pickup-only stores.