News Summary
Starbucks is set to close at least four locations in Wisconsin as part of a plan to restructure its business and improve its financial standing. The closures, effective September 27, are a response to evolving customer preferences and business demands. In total, the company will close between 400 and 500 stores across North America by the end of the month, aiming to revitalize its brand amid pandemic-related challenges. The restructuring plan may also include layoffs, but Starbucks remains committed to future expansion.
Madison, Wisconsin – Starbucks plans to close at least four locations in Wisconsin as part of a broader strategy to restructure the company and improve its financial standing. The closures will take effect on September 27, with specific store addresses already confirmed in several regions, responding to shifts in customer preferences and business demand.
The affected locations in Wisconsin include:
- 383 W. Brown Deer Road, Fox Point
- 151 N. Mayfair Road, Wauwatosa
- 10204 Park Plaza, Rothschild
- 1896 E. Washington Ave., Madison (no hours listed after closure date)
- 2883 S. Oneida St., Ashwaubenon (no hours listed after closure date)
Starbucks is poised to close between 400 and 500 stores throughout the U.S. and Canada by the end of the month, which equates to roughly 1% of its North American footprint. These significant closures are part of a $1 billion initiative dubbed “Back to Starbucks,” aimed at revitalizing its business amid challenges heightened by the pandemic.
As part of this restructuring plan, approximately 900 corporate employees are expected to be laid off, and many open positions will be eliminated. The company has not disclosed a full list of the stores set to close, but confirmations have been made through direct inquiries and postings on the Starbucks website.
Reasons for Closures
Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol indicated that a review of the North American store portfolio has revealed several locations to be unviable, prompting the decision to close these stores. Alongside closures, the company is working to offer transfer opportunities for employees at the affected locations to nearby stores whenever possible.
Future Store Strategy
Despite the closures, Starbucks will continue its expansion strategy. By late September 2025, the company anticipates having nearly 18,300 locations across the U.S. and Canada, down from 18,424 at the start of the fiscal year. In fiscal year 2026, Starbucks plans to open more stores and also refresh over 1,000 existing locations to enhance overall customer experience.
The company is adapting to changing customer behavior, particularly an increased preference for mobile ordering and drive-thru services that have surged during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. An emphasis on creating inviting atmospheres and a welcoming environment in its coffeehouses remains a priority for Starbucks.
Worker Response
In response to the closures, Starbucks Workers United plans to formally request more details from the company concerning the closures to ensure transparency and address employee concerns during this transitional period.
The continuing adjustments at Starbucks reflect a broader trend within the retail and service industries, as companies navigate the new landscape of consumer habits and economic realities post-pandemic. As Starbucks implements these changes, the company aims to maintain its core mission of serving quality coffee while also responding decisively to market demands.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Starbucks to Close Multiple Locations in Wisconsin
Additional Resources
- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- WISN 12 News
- Newsweek
- Wikipedia: Starbucks
- Google Search: Starbucks closures 2025
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
