A major coffee chain is shutting down a key location in Washington

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Big news from the coffee world: Starbucks is closing its popular Alki Beach store in Seattle this summer, and local patrons are not taking it lightly. The closure, set for Sunday, August 11, has sparked a wave of outrage and a passionate petition to save the beloved café.

Starbucks confirmed the closure of the Alki Avenue location, which has been a neighborhood fixture since 1999. This decision will leave only five other Starbucks stores open in the West Seattle area. It’s been about 16 years since the last store in the region was shuttered, making this closure particularly poignant for long-time customers.

The news has ruffled feathers, and locals are mobilizing to make their voices heard. A petition titled "Save Our Alki Beach Starbucks!" has garnered hundreds of signatures, reflecting the strong community support for keeping the store open.

The petition outlines several reasons why the store is more than just a coffee shop. “The Alki Beach Starbucks is a central gathering place for our community,” it reads. It’s not just about coffee; it’s about connection. The store provides a space for friends to meet, families to connect, and neighbors to come together. It also plays a significant role in boosting the local economy by drawing in visitors and supporting nearby businesses.

For many, this Starbucks is a crucial spot for remote workers who use it as a break from their home offices. The petition argues that its closure would diminish Alki’s walkability and disrupt the lives of both customers and employees.

Starbucks has assured that employees at the Alki Beach store will have opportunities to transfer to other locations, but the community’s concern extends beyond just the staff. The petition urges Starbucks to reconsider the closure and explore alternatives, like renovating or relocating the store within the Alki Beach area.

“The Alki Beach location is vital to our community,” the petition states. “Let’s send a message that this place matters to us.”

As the closure date approaches, it’s clear that the Alki Beach Starbucks holds a special place in the hearts of many. The petition serves as a reminder of the important role local businesses play in our lives and communities.