Starbucks Closure List in Minnesota

Starbucks closure list in Minnesota: Unless you have been hiding under a rock, you have probably heard that Starbucks is closing 600 of its stores across the United States. The current lagging economy and poor real estate decisions have not helped the coffee shop giant. Some people think Starbucks grew way too fast once their popularity increased. According to the AP, about 12,000 workers -- 7 percent of the company's employees -- will be impacted. The closing should happen between late July and mid 2009. It turns out that 19 percent of the stores they have opened around the country since 2006, are closing.

Of the 600 stores that are closing, 27 of those closing are located in Minnesota -- mainly Minneapolis and its surrounding suburbs. The cities of Brooklyn Park, Blaine and Coon Rapids will each be losing a total of 3 Starbucks stores each. Extreme southern Minnesota will be losing a few Starbucks stores as well. These closings really don't affect me because I don't live near any of those Starbucks locations. There are still a few Starbucks coffee shops located near my home.

I think it will really affect the suburbs of Minneapolis a lot more than the city of Minneapolis itself, and those who live further out from the city. There are 3 suburbs each losing 3 Starbucks stores. Customers are either going to have to drive further or probably even more out of their way in order to find Starbucks Coffee. I'm sure the Caribou Coffee chain will start to see an increase in sales because of all the Starbucks closings.

It really is unfortunate that Starbucks is having to close so many of their stores. Hopefully after the economy starts to pick up, the coffee giants will be able to start growing again.

Emma L. Carew, "27 Starbucks will close in Minnesota" Star Tribune.

The Associated Press, "Starbucks Closing 600 U.S. Stores, Rein In Growth" WCCO.com