Starbucks China to require purchases for seating from Oct. 22

(ECNS) -- Starbucks will require customers to make a purchase to sit in its stores across China starting Thursday, with signs to be displayed, the company told The Paper, a Chinese news outlet.

The requirement had trended on Chinese social media and drawn controversy in recent days. Starbucks will provide its staff with unified service guidelines and necessary support. Employees will be instructed to communicate with customers in a friendly and courteous manner and handle special circumstances appropriately.

Staff will give priority in helping customers who need assistance, including pregnant women and people with limited mobility, the company said.

(By Gong Weiwei)