From Chains to Community – Starbucks Closure

By Dempsey Clancy-Symond
Opinion Editor

As of recent news, Starbucks has been forced to close down more than 1% of their stores in North America, which comes to around 434 locations, including 76 stores in California alone. Surprisingly, many of the stores that shut down were popular locations. For example, all three Starbucks locations in Hermosa Beach closed, leaving the city only with the one inside Pavilions (formerly Vons), which isn’t very convenient for most residents.

For many people, this news feels like a big inconvenience. Adults who relied on Starbucks for their morning caffeine before heading to work are now forced to change their daily routines. For years, grabbing a cup of coffee from their local Starbucks was a comforting and familiar start to the day. Now, those former customers have to find new coffee shops or take longer routes to find a replacement. Something as simple as a morning coffee run might not seem like a big deal, but for people who rely on structure and routine, it can definitely throw things off balance.

Students are also feeling the effects of these closures. MostCosta students love Starbucks and often see it as a go-to place for a quick drink before school, after practice, or while hanging out with friends. The closure of the Hermosa Beach locations means that students who live nearby can no longer just walk to grab their favorite drink. Instead, they’ll have to drive out of their way to reach the next closest Starbucks, which can be a hassle, especially during busy school days. For some students, Starbucks wasn’t just about the drinks, it was also a social spot where they could meet friends, do homework, or just relax. Losing those locations changes the community in small but noticeable ways.

However, while this situation is frustrating for loyal Starbucks customers, there’s another side to consider. The closing of big corporate coffee chains could actually open up opportunities for local coffee shops to thrive. For a long time, independent coffee shops have competed with Starbucks’ brand recognition, marketing power, and pure convenience. Many smaller cafes have struggled to get noticed because people automatically go to Starbucks, simply because it’s familiar and consistent. With fewer Starbucks stores around, people may start exploring smaller, locally owned coffee shops that they might have overlooked before.

This could be a positive shift for communities like Hermosa Beach. Local coffee shops often offer a warmer, more personal experience. The owners and baristas usually know their regular customers by name and can customize drinks in ways that large chains can’t. Additionally, these small businesses often source ingredients from local suppliers and invest more care in creating unique flavors and cozy spaces that reflect the character of the community. When customers choose to support local cafes, more money stays in the local economy, helping the town grow stronger overall.

Additionally, local coffee shops tend to provide better environments for creativity and connection. Instead of the same standardized setup found in every Starbucks, local cafes often have their own unique style; some might feature live music, art from local artists, or themed decorations that make each visit interesting. This sense of originality and authenticity is something people increasingly value, especially in a world where so much feels mass-produced and corporate.

Of course, some people will still miss the familiarity of Starbucks, the taste of their favorite drink made exactly the same every time, the loyalty points, and the comfort of knowing what to expect. However, in the broader context, the closures might prompt people to slow down a bit, explore their communities more, and discover new favorite spots. It could even bring a new sense of connection between residents and local business owners.

So while it’s understandable that many are disappointed to see their go-to Starbucks locations close, there’s a silver lining. This change could encourage people to try something new, help small businesses grow, and make communities like Hermosa Beach more vibrant and unique. Maybe the next “favorite coffee spot” isn’t a big chain at all, but a small local cafe just waiting to be discovered.