Starbucks reverses policy allowing non-paying customers in North American cafes

Starbucks says it is reversing rules for its cafes in North America that allowed people to use their facilities even if they had not bought anything.

The changes, which are set to come into force from January 27, are a U-turn from a policy introduced six years ago that allowed people to linger in Starbucks outlets and use their toilets without making a purchase.

The move is part of the back-to-Starbucks strategy, a plan announced by the firm's new boss as he tries to tackle flagging sales.

The world's biggest coffee chain says its new code of conduct, which also addresses harassment and bans smoking and outside alcohol, aims to make its stores more welcoming.