‘Bel Loc’ Starbucks closes permanently; fate of the site is unclear

Starbucks has decided to close its location at Joppa Road and Loch Raven Boulevard permanently, after initially indicating the closure was temporary.

“After careful consideration, we have determined that it’s best to close our store at Joppa Road and Loch Raven Boulevard,” a representative said Wednesday.

The freestanding store, which opened in June 2018, was controversial in some circles because its construction required the demolition of the Bel-Loc Diner, a fixture at that intersection since 1964.

When it closed suddenly last November, company representatives posted a sign on the door indicating that the closing was temporary. “We are working to reopen our store as quickly as possible,” it said.

The Starbucks representative did not give a specific reason for the company’s decision to close the location permanently.

“There are a number of factors that we consider when taking the tough decision of closing a store, but we have to make the right decision to ensure a healthy store portfolio,” she said.

“Throughout the process, we’re listening to the needs of our partners and our community members in making this decision that’s best for their well-being,” she said. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all process. It’s just part of our regular process of evaluating our store portfolio.”

The representative said she had no information about what will happen to the property.

“We are grateful for the contributions from our partners (employees) at this store, and all partners have been given the opportunity to transfer to a neighboring store of their choice,” the representative said. “We will continue to serve our customers at our nearby locations, including Honeygo Boulevard, a 10-minute drive away.”