Starbucks to Shut Down at Least 28 Locations in Washington, Including 10 in Seattle

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Starbucks Announces Closures and Layoffs in Major Shift

Starbucks is rolling out a major change to its business model, laying off approximately 900 employees and closing multiple stores across the U.S. and Canada. the company says this is to refocus on improving its performance.

The closures are impacting locations in Washington, including a significant number in the seattle area. At least 28 stores in Washington state are affected, including nine in Seattle. Notably, the Seattle Reserve Roastery, a flagship location, will permanently close. Other Seattle stores on the list include locations in Queen Anne, Ballard, SoDo, Aurora, eastlake, and 5th Avenue.

Beyond Seattle, closures are also planned in Bellevue, Bothell, Covington, Edmonds, Kirkland, Lynnwood, and Ritzville.

Specific closures include:

* Seattle at 425 Queen Anne Avenue N
* Seattle at 100 Denny Way
* Seattle at 1124 Pike Street (Seattle Reserve Roastery)
* Seattle at 13025 Aurora Avenue N
* Seattle at 2200 N.W. Market Street
* Seattle at 2344 Eastlake Avenue E
* Seattle at 800 5th Avenue
* Seattle at 4115 4th Avenue S
* Bellevue at 15600 N.E. 8th Street
* Bothell at 2020 Maltby Road
* covington at 921 Magill Drive
* edmonds at 21920 Highway 99
* Kirkland at 116 Lake Street
* Lynnwood at 19931 Pacific Highway and 2902 164th Street S.W.
* Mill Creek at 15517 Main Street
* Redmond at 8860 161st Avenue N.E.
* Ritzville and 101 W.Main
* Spanaway at 22010 Pacific Hwy S

What are the primary factors contributing to Starbucks’ decision to close stores in Washington state?

Starbucks Closures in Washington: 28 Stores to Shut Down, Impacting Seattle & Beyond

Starbucks is planning significant closures across Washington state, impacting coffee lovers and employees alike. As of September 27,2025,the company has announced the permanent shuttering of at least 28 locations,with a concentrated impact on the Seattle metropolitan area – 10 stores will close within the city limits. This move is part of a broader restructuring initiative by Starbucks,citing operational changes and a focus on higher-performing stores.

Understanding the Starbucks Washington Closures

The decision to close these Starbucks locations isn’t isolated. It reflects a larger trend within the company to reassess its store portfolio and adapt to evolving consumer behaviors.Several factors are believed to be contributing to this wave of closures:

* Changing Consumer Habits: Increased remote work and shifts in commuting patterns have altered foot traffic in certain areas, impacting store profitability.

* operational Costs: Rising rent, labor costs, and supply chain challenges are putting pressure on Starbucks’ bottom line.

* Focus on Drive-Thru & Mobile Order: Starbucks is prioritizing investments in stores with drive-thru capabilities and those that efficiently handle mobile order and pickup, catering to convenience-focused customers.

* Safety Concerns: Starbucks has publicly cited concerns regarding the safety and well-being of its partners (employees) and customers at some locations as a factor in closure decisions.

Seattle starbucks Closures: A Detailed Look

Seattle is disproportionately affected by these closures, losing 10 stores. While Starbucks hasn’t released a extensive list of specific locations,reports indicate closures are impacting diverse neighborhoods.

here’s what we know so far (as of September 27, 2025):

* Capitol Hill: One location on Broadway is slated for closure, impacting a densely populated and traditionally vibrant area.

* Downtown Seattle: Multiple stores in the downtown core, particularly those reliant on office worker traffic, are affected.

* University District: A store near the University of Washington campus will be closing, potentially impacting student access to Starbucks.

* Other Areas: Closures are also planned in neighborhoods like West Seattle and Northgate.

The exact dates of closure vary,but most are expected to be finalized by the end of October 2025. Customers are encouraged to check the Starbucks store locator (https://www.starbucks.com/) for the most up-to-date data on specific store closures.

Impact Beyond Seattle: washington State-Wide Closures

Beyond Seattle, the remaining 18 closures are spread across Washington state. Cities and towns affected include:

* Tacoma: several locations are scheduled to close, impacting access to Starbucks in Pierce County.

* Bellevue: A few stores in Bellevue are also on the closure list.

* spokane: Locations in Spokane are also affected by the restructuring.

* Smaller Cities: Stores in smaller Washington communities are also being evaluated, leading to closures in areas with lower sales volume.

What This Means for starbucks Rewards Members

Starbucks rewards members who frequent the closing locations will need to find choice stores.

* Rewards Points: Rewards points will remain valid and can be used at any open Starbucks location.

* Mobile Ordering: Mobile ordering will no longer be available at the closed stores.

* Store Transfers: Starbucks is encouraging partners at closing stores to apply for positions at other locations.

The Future of Starbucks in Washington

Despite these closures, Starbucks remains a significant presence in Washington state. The company is continuing to invest in new store formats, including:

* Starbucks Pickup: Smaller-format stores focused solely on mobile order and pickup.

* Drive-Thru Focused Stores: New stores designed with efficient drive-thru lanes to cater to on-the-go customers.

* Immersive Experiences: Flagship stores offering unique and engaging coffee experiences.

These investments signal a strategic shift towards prioritizing convenience, efficiency, and profitability. The long-term impact of these closures on the Washington coffee market remains to be seen,but it’s clear that Starbucks is adapting to a changing landscape.

Resources for Affected Employees (“partners”)

Starbucks has stated its commitment to supporting affected employees. Resources available to “partners” impacted by the closures include:

* Severance Packages: Eligible employees will receive severance pay based on their tenure with the company.

* Job Placement Assistance: Starbucks is offering job placement assistance to help partners find new employment opportunities.

* Benefits Continuation: information regarding benefits continuation will be provided to affected employees.

* Transfer Opportunities: Partners are encouraged to apply for open positions at other Starbucks locations.

Finding Alternative Coffee Options

For those impacted by the Starbucks closures, numerous alternative coffee options are available throughout Washington state:

* Local Coffee Shops: Support independent coffee shops in your community.

* National Chains: Explore other coffee chains like Dutch Bros Coffee or Peet’s Coffee.

* Grocery Store Coffee: brew your own coffee at home using beans from local roasters or grocery stores.

* Specialty Coffee Roasters: Discover unique coffee blends from Washington-based specialty coffee roasters.