Starbucks Singapore: Pets still welcome at ECP outlet

In the comments section of the original post, some netizens supported Ian’s stance, saying that they would avoid the cafe chain.

“I don’t have a dog but will boycott with this stupid rule!” a netizen commented.

One netizen who said they were a Muslim added that they had “no issue with owners bringing their pets to whichever cafe they want”.

However, others were adamant that the move to ban pets was “understandable”.

“All halal establishments have the right to turn away pet dogs/cats,” the netizen said.

“Aiyah… u cannot please everybody. If not halal… people will complain that how can a multinational company in Singapore not cater to them,” another pointed out.

Addressing the post’s virality, Ian told Stomp that he did not agree with others “putting a racial and religious spin on it”.

“The post was never about race or religion. The post is about a business decision that limits choices for pet owners,” he said.

Pet owners confused

When Stomp visited the Starbucks outlet at 8am on May 13, the sign in question was nowhere to be seen.

About six people were seated at the outdoor area, with three dogs in sight. Indoors, a steady stream of customers patronised the cafe.

Carl, a 32-year-old data analyst, told Stomp that he felt it was important to have outdoor spaces for pet owners and their furry friends.

The dog owner, who visits the ECP twice a week, said he would understand if pets were not allowed indoors.

“But outdoor places I think, why not allow it? Or maybe have segregated areas if they felt like they got complaints from people who don’t like pets,” he suggested.

Another dog owner, Sujata, said the cafe’s move to ban pets was a “bummer” as the park was “one of the most dog-friendly places in Singapore”.

Others also pointed out that the outlet would serve treats for dogs. “That was very pet-friendly and now they’re doing the opposite, it’s very weird,” Patrick, a 46-year-old software engineer, said.

However, he acknowledged that “every shop owner has the right to decide what they want to do”.

Jade, a 47-year-old dog owner who frequents the Starbucks outlet, expressed confusion about the situation.

“I don’t know what this has to do with halal-certified measures. Maybe if that’s the case, they could explain a bit more?” she asked, adding that she would reconsider patronising the outlet if her dog was no longer allowed.

Pets still allowed at ECP Starbucks outlet

In response to Stomp’s queries, a Starbucks spokesperson said that they are reviewing certain aspects of store operations to best serve the community, and will share updates when they become available.

“In the meantime, there are no changes to our current store operations, and pets will continue to be welcome on our premises,” the representative added.

“We apologise for any confusion caused by our earlier communication and thank our customers for their understanding.”

On Starbucks’ website, its Parkland Green outlet continues to be listed as pet-friendly, among 28 other outlets.

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