Macon Starbucks locations temporarily change operating hours due to worker shortage

Starbucks locations in Macon are operating on modified hours through Nov. 15 due to staffing shortages, according to a Starbucks spokesperson.

Both of the free-standing stores at 4640 Forsyth Road and at 121 Tom Hill Sr. Blvd. are closing early at 4 p.m. based on hours posted Tuesday on the Starbucks website.

To best keep up with operating hours, though, customers are advised to check the Starbucks app or the store locator on the Starbucks website for their Starbucks location, the spokesperson said.

Starbucks stores nationwide, including those in Macon, may adapt operating hours as needed to meet the needs of their staff and communities, the spokesperson said.

Also, store hours may also change to adhere to Starbucks COVID-19 protocols as needed, she said.

Because of the staffing shortage, hours were reduced at the Macon location to ensure current employees are not overworked in order to look after their health and well-being, according to the spokesperson.

Starbucks locations in Warner Robins and Perry were operating on regular schedules Tuesday, according to the Starbucks website.

Restaurants nationwide have been experiencing employee shortages attributed to a variety of reasons from a higher demand for employees as new eateries open to employees fearful of working inside due to COVID-19 to workers having transitioned into other jobs such as with food delivery services, according to a Kansas City Start article exploring the problem.

Also, some restaurant owners have blamed improved unemployment benefits during the pandemic for the shortages, the article said.