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I agree this was a publicity stunt, but it doesn't send a positive message to me. Starbucks chose to schedule this event at their convenience, not their customers. Training is about changing knowledge, skills, or abilities, not about how much time you put in. There are many ways they could have sent the message to their employees without closing down during normal business hours.

Like you, I'm hopeful, but this stunt seemed to be a bit off the mark. I'd love to see a 'stunt' that did something positive for their customers.

Maria,

I felt it was gutsy and needed. I think Howard basically had four options: Close for three hours during the morning rush, close for three hours during a low traffic time, conduct the training during the time they are closed, or send out a memo. The last two just don't get the visibility and the proper importance and closing during the morning rush would not be wise. But closing during normal operation hours (albeit during a lower traffic time) is like shutting down the assembly line while you see a problem instead of waiting for the end of the shift. It just sends a more powerful message. Hopefully the results back up the message. We'll see.