Without fanfare, Maricopa’s only standalone Starbucks reopened early this morning after a six-week closure for remodeling.

The 1,900-square-foot store at 21423 N. John Wayne Parkway was empty at 7 a.m., save for baristas and managers.

The drive-thru was also closed during the remodeling. It reopened this morning, but customer traffic was light.

Some of the more obvious store remodeling: a new floor, new restrooms, brighter colors on walls and a wider seating area for customers. InMaricopa contacted Starbucks communications headquarters in Seattle and was given the following corporate line, declining to answer most questions a reporter asked:

“As a standard course of business, we continually evaluate our store portfolio, using various criteria to ensure we are meeting the needs of our customers. We are happy to confirm that our store in Maricopa, AZ, is currently undergoing a standard renovation. The store closed temporarily for the renovation and will reopen on March 14, 2024. The store will reopen with enhancements to improve operational efficiency.”

Starbucks’ 29 employees were temporarily transferred to other Starbucks locations while the Maricopa store was remodeled. Customers were directed to other Starbucks grocery store stands, but customers complained the lines were too long and the coffee inferior to that made by specially trained baristas at the store.

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