Starbucks announced that it will close around 180 stores across the United States, including in Miami. The company said it was due to high maintenance costs, consumer habits, and a new restructuring strategy.

In Miami, at least 12 stores are expected to close by the end of the year, some being in busy neighborhoods where many people get their coffee.

“I go to the Starbucks in Brickell City Center at least once a week so I am sad to see it closing down,” said junior Camila Echeverri.

Starbucks officials said the company will try to become more centered around the drive-thru option plus deliveries. In areas like Miami, this means fewer places for customers to sit, meet, and study like they used to.

“I like to go study at the South Beach store,” said junior Maria Nordholz. “I don’t know where I am going to study now, but I understand why they are doing this.” 

Local cafés say they are preparing for new customers since their biggest competition is closing down. The closures will affect hundreds of workers which could lead to other problems. Starbucks stated that employees will be offered opportunities at nearby stores when possible.

“I don’t know what I am going to do now that the store I work at is closing, I have been working there for around a year so I am sad to see it go. I hope Starbucks stays true to their word and helps me find employment nearby,” said senior Amy Pichardo.

Industry experts suggest that the closures in Miami reflect a broader trend among national chains adjusting to rising rents and evolving consumer behavior in dense urban areas. While Starbucks is doubling down on efficiency-focused models, the shift raises questions about the future of traditional café spaces in major cities.

The closures in Miami show a recent trend among many company chains that are remodeling to try to please the new consumer behavior in highly populated areas.