As part of a large-scale review of its international branch network, locations with insufficient customer traffic or lack of long-term economic prospects will be closed, the company announced on September 25th.
“The aim is to direct more of its offerings to profitable locations,” it explained.
The number of stores that will be affected by this measure in Switzerland, the number of employees likely to lose their jobs, as well as the exact date of the closures, are not yet known.
Currently, the chain owns about 57 coffee shops across Switzerland.
Some of them will continue to operate, however.
That’s because, according to a company spokesperson, Switzerland remains an important market for Starbucks, in which investment will continue.
"Five stores were already opened in 2025, and the planned new opening in Interlaken at the beginning of 2026 reinforces our growth trajectory," he said.
Some leave, others arrive
The ‘slimming down’ of Starbucks goes contrary to the general trend of more US chains – mostly fast foods - establishing themselves on Swiss territory.
There are currently almost 500 of these franchises across the country, in addition to numerous kebab, taco, and pizza chains.
McDonald's, the largest fast-food franchise company in the country, announced in 2024 that it aims to pass the 200 mark for the number of restaurants it has in Switzerland. It currently has around 180.
Other US giants, Wendy's (hamburgers) and Taco Bell (Tex-Mex), also announced that Switzerland is part of their expansion strategy for new outlets.
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