McDonald's, Starbucks, and Others Ban In-Store Food Consumption Due to COVID-19

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] McDonald's, the world's largest fast-food chain, is temporarily closing its stores in the United States due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Starbucks also announced it will indefinitely suspend operations at its Reserve Roastery stores located in the U.S. This comes as dozens of states, including New York and Connecticut, have banned eating in restaurants and bars.

According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on the 16th (local time), McDonald's announced it will close dining areas inside its stores to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, it added that services will continue through takeout, drive-thru, and delivery.

Additionally, McDonald's said it will close indoor children's play areas and postpone construction plans at stores nationwide.

Starbucks, one of the largest coffee chains in the U.S., also announced it will indefinitely suspend operations at its Starbucks Reserve Roastery stores located in Seattle, New York, and Chicago starting from that day.

A Starbucks spokesperson explained the reason for the store closures, saying, "Many communities and local governments are requesting 'social distancing' to prevent the spread of COVID-19." They added, "Because the COVID-19 situation is developing very dramatically, we currently do not know when we can resume operations. We will take measures in cooperation with authorities to protect our partners, customers, and communities."

There are only six Starbucks Reserve Roastery locations worldwide, including three in the U.S., as well as in Milan, Italy; Shanghai, China; and Tokyo, Japan.

Meanwhile, after President Donald Trump mentioned that Americans should avoid eating and drinking in bars, restaurants, and food courts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the number of states banning such activities has increased. Dozens of states, including Illinois, Massachusetts, Washington, New Jersey, Connecticut, and New York, have joined this effort.

According to the restaurant reservation site OpenTable, the number of restaurant visitors nationwide last weekend dropped to about one-third compared to the same period last year.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.