Starbucks stops short of a ban on guns

It is walking a fine line to address the concerns of both gun rights and gun control advocates which reflects how heated the issue has become, particularly in light of recent mass shootings.

Most states allow people to openly carry licensed guns and many companies do not have laws banning firearms in their stores. But Starbucks has become a target for gun control advocates, in part because of its liberal-leaning corporate image. In turn, gun rights advocates have been galvanised by the company’s decision to defer to local laws.

Chief executive Howard Schultz said the decision came as a result of the growing frequency of Starbucks Appreciation Days, in which gun rights advocates turn up at cafes with firearms.

He said the events misrepresented the company’s stance on the issue and the demonstrations “have made our customers uncomfortable”.

He hoped people would honour the request not to bring in guns but said the company will still serve those who do.

It plans adverts in major national newspapers to explain the decision, pointing to recent activities by both gun rights and gun control advocates at its stores, saying that it has been “thrust unwillingly” into the debate over firearms.

Meanwhile, the mother of the Washington Navy Yard gunman has spoken of her sorrow for the victims of his murderous rampage.

Cathleen Alexis said in New York she was “so, so very sorry that this has happened,” that she does not know why her son, Aaron, did what he did and she will never be able to ask him. “My heart is broken.”

Alexis ,34, had been suffering serious mental problems including paranoia and a sleep disorder. The gunman who killed 12 people before being shot dead by police had a history of violent outbursts, was at least twice accused of firing guns in anger, and was in the early stages of treatment for serious mental problems.