The green-aproned baristas of the Picton Starbucks were asked to escort the few customers out of the shop last Thursday afternoon, and close the doors behind them.

Minutes later, they were told the store was one among the 200 to be shuttered this year.

“We didn’t get any warning. There was no posting in the back. We were just as surprised as the customers,” said Sam Mele, a shift supervisor. District managers showed up unannounced, and informed staff that they would be laid off with no option to transfer to another location. 

Neither employees on site, nor those who were not working, have received much information since.

The news came only hours after Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol announced in an Open Letter that 900 corporate employees would be laid off and 200 coffeehouses permanently closed. Mr. Niccol did not indicate how many Starbucks retail staffers, such as baristas, would be affected by the closures, but numbers suggest at least 5000.

The “path to financial performance” was a key factor in deciding which of the franchise coffee houses would remain open, and which would close.

At the Picton Starbucks, both staff and customers were confused and bewildered. 

“I know a lot of people, like Kim for example, who works here — she’s kind of the community sweetheart and people would come just to see her. They’re grieving for sure,” said Ms. Mele.

Garrit and Avery, County residents in their early twenties, were disappointed. For them, Starbucks connected Picton to life in the city, and provided a space to work and study. 

“Obviously supporting local is always important, but there’s not always as much space to do work, and try the stuff on social media,” said Avery.

Jordan Malka, owner of Beacon Bike + Brew, had mixed feelings.

“Any business closing is sad and extremely hurtful, especially in a seasonal location,” he noted. 

While he hopes that a locally owned and operated business might take over the space, he recognizes that is unlikely. The Starbucks location, which has a drive-through, was newly renovated and designed for the chain retailer.

While Mr. Malka feels that the “writing was on the wall” for Starbucks, he says there’s lots for people to look ahead to in the coming months, and to keep businesses thriving.

“The Film Festival, the Marathon, the Night Market, The Holiday Markets — I’m optimistic about the off-season in Picton.”

It’s clearly a tough go for retail chains stores setting up in the County. Fat Face, a British clothing retailer, opened up shop on Picton Main Street but did not last the year. Its place has been taken by October Sky, a local vintage clothing shop.