Starbucks to continue allowing pets at East Coast Park outlet, apologises after no-pets sign caused 'confusion'

A sign was recently spotted outside Starbucks' East Coast Park outlet stating that pets will no longer be allowed in both the indoor and outdoor sitting areas from May 25, as part of the franchise's transition towards halal-certified operations.

Guide dogs, however, would remain welcome, the sign added.

In Singapore, pet dogs are not permitted at halal-certified premises, including at outdoor refreshment areas (ORAs).

After a photo of the Starbucks sign was shared on Facebook on May 11, it quickly caught attention and sparked debate over the move.

The user who made the Facebook post called it "absolutely ridiculous and dumb", pointing out in a comment that "there are a lot of dog owners that go to that outlet specifically because of their dogs".

Pets will continue to be welcome

A day after the Facebook post, Starbucks said that the no-pets rule will no longer happen on May 25.

In response to Mothership's queries, the franchise said that they are currently reviewing certain aspects of their store operations as they explore how best to serve the community.

They will share updates as they become available, they added.

"In the meantime, there are no changes to our current store operations, and pets will continue to be welcome on our premises. We apologise for any confusion caused by our earlier communication and thank our customers for their understanding."