Largo Starbucks to Go Smoke-Free June 1

Joe Camel is not welcome at Starbucks starting Saturday, June 1.

Starbucks shops in Largo and across the nation are becoming smoke-free, joining a growing number of restaurants and bars that prohibit smoking.

Across the U.S. smoking will be banned in the Starbucks coffee shops, the outdoor patio areas and within 25 feet of the doors, according to a company statement.

What do you think of the ban? Do you welcome or oppose it? Let us know in the Comments section below.

"We apologize for any inconvenience, but we are complying with many current and future regulations," was the explanation that is printed on cards at Starbucks stores.

The company's transition to a completely smoke-free environment will be a radical change for the loyal customers who've made a habit of sitting at the outdoor cafe tables to smoke, drink coffee and read from laptops or socialize.

But the company has not tried to highly publicize the impending ban at its neighborhood shops, where the wifi connections are free and customers are welcome to spend an hour or the entire day.

What do you think of the smoking ban at Starbucks? Will you welcome it, or do you oppose the new restrictions? Let us know in the comments below.

Which is your favorite Starbucks location in Largo?

Here are some spots listed below:

• Starbucks 10801 Starkey Rd, Largo, FL 33777 727-392-3435

• Starbucks Coffee 2401 East Bay Dr, Largo, FL 33771 727-599-2129

• Starbucks Coffee 10443 Ulmerton Rd, Largo, FL 33771 727-518-2416

• Starbucks Coffee 13650 Walsingham Rd, Largo, FL 33774 727-593-9461

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