Problema 2 · Inglés PAU Baleares Ordinaria 2025

a) Why did Starbucks introduce a policy allowing people to use toilets without making a purchase in 2018?

Solución: Starbucks introduced the policy after two black men were arrested at a Philadelphia store in 2018, which led the city’s mayor to accuse the company of racial discrimination. After this incident, the company wanted to respond by making sure everyone felt welcome in their stores.

b) What new measures are being implemented alongside the policy change to improve the café experience?

Solución: Several actions are being taken, such as: Training staff for three hours before the new policy starts, offering free refills of hot or iced coffee to all customers who buy a drink, simplifying the menu to make it easier to understand, providing more affordable drink options, and creating clear rules in the code of conduct to address behaviours like harassment, misuse of spaces, or disruptive actions.

c) Why might the new toilet policy be seen as a disadvantage for certain groups, such as disabled people or pregnant women?

Solución: The new policy limits free access to toilets for non-customers, which may make it more difficult for groups like disabled people or pregnant women—who often depend on accessible toilets in private businesses—to find facilities when shopping or travelling. This change could decrease convenience and accessibility for these groups.