Starbucks closures open doors for local coffee shops

After years of rapid expansion, the popular coffee chain Starbucks is changing its business approach by closing more than 29 locations across California and approximately 430 nationwide. These closures could potentially shift the coffee scene and allow smaller local coffee shops to stand out. 

Prior to the official closing of stores, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol told ABC7 News how they chose the locations to shut down.

“The company identified coffeehouses that were unable to create the physical environment customers and partners expect, or where we don't see a path to financial performance, and these locations will be closed,” Niccol said. 

He also noted that the company is intending to cultivate a warm and cozy environment, with the new locations, as seen in the recently opened Starbucks within a Santa Monica Vons on 7th Street and Broadway. 

After laying off approximately 970 employees nationwide with such short notice, Starbucks is being investigated on whether or not they followed the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN). This act requires employers to provide 60 days prior written notice to employees before laying them off. 

Starbucks employee Seito Phipps (’26) noted the failure to give prior notice.

“Employees were given three days' notice prior to stores closing, and they want to take the money from underperforming stores and give it to other stores so they can remodel,” Phipps said. 

More than 20 Starbucks locations were closed in Los Angeles alone, including eight on the West side of LA. With two major Santa Monica Starbucks closing, one near City Hall and another off of Ocean Park, local coffee shops could benefit with the increased business of customers seeking an alternative place to get coffee. 

There are many independent coffee shops located near Samo including Little Bean Cold Brew, Amai Tea & Cafe, Dogtown Coffee and MUD/WTR. These businesses are within a relative walking distance from school and can serve as a space for students to spend time or purchase a drink. 

Due to its convenient location right off 7th street, Little Bean Cold Brew has become a popular lunch spot for Samo students with off campus passes. This is the only Little Bean location, and it’s fully run by its owner Christopher Saphire and his family. Little Bean offers everything from french toast lattes to ‘Very Berry’ lemonades, and an array of pastries, everything ranging from prices starting at $3. Saphire shared how he's made his cafe a comfortable place for students.

“I have a table in the corner with outlets and wifi,” Saphire said. “Students like to hang before and after school, or on free periods where they know they can work in peace and be in a safe space. I also don’t require any purchases for using the bathroom or having a glass of water, so students use my space as they need.​​”

Only a short distance from the school, Dogtown Coffee offers a welcoming environment characterized by its rustic, surf-inspired atmosphere. Dogtown has a variety of coffees, as well as breakfasts and lunches, with favorites being their breakfast burrito, açai bowl and some salads. Dogtown also includes vegan, gluten free and health conscious options. Drinks cost about $3-7, while breakfast and lunches offer options with prices starting at $5.50. 

For those seeking a unique and cultural coffee experience, Amai Tea & Coffee offers a range of Asian-inspired drinks. Located off Pico, Amai Tea & Coffee is one of only three in LA. Following their slogan, "Asian inspired coffee, it means sweet,” Amai Coffee offers Vietnamese teas and coffees, as well as classic coffee, matcha and fall drinks. The cafe was founded by Filipino and Vietnamese owners, who intend to share their culture with Santa Monica.

MUD/WTR, a local cafe that opened in 2023, is located on Main street and specializes in coffee alternatives. With an emphasis on health and well being, MUD/WTR makes smoothies, coffee and pastries using only organic ingredients. Aside from products, MUD/WTR offers events and activities regarding mediation, breathwork and music. Layla Dworkin (’27) describes the shop's atmosphere.

“I think MUD/WTR is really relaxing, there's a lot of bean bags and chill music. It's definitely a good place to study,” Dworkin said. 

Local Businesses also tend to benefit the cities’ economy as well as engage in the community. 

“Local businesses are not only incredibly important to the economy of your city, but they are a reflection of who we are as a people and what we care about,” Saphire said.