Global coffee company Starbucks has announced that it will be introducing the ‘to go’ model at its cafes in the US and Canada to guard against the Covid-19 outbreak.

The company notes that it might reduce the store operating hours or even shut the outlet where there are several coronavirus cases.

The model will be initially in place for two weeks and will prevent customers from gathering inside cafes and on patios.

In New York and Seattle, the company intends to reduce the working hours or temporarily close some stores.

Starbucks notes that these steps were effective when deployed in China.

Last week, the company announced it will be opening a roasting facility in China with a grant of $130m as part of its Coffee Innovation Park (CIP), the most substantial investment by the coffee company outside the US market.

The investment will see the construction of a roasting plant, warehouse and distribution centre, as well as create employment opportunities in the region.

Upon completion, the company anticipates that its new facility would further drive smart and sustainable coffee manufacturing in China.

Starbucks China chairman and CEO Belinda Wong said: “Starbucks has spent the past 20 years sharing its passion for coffee across China and helping to build a leading industry that makes us all proud.

“The roasting facilities at the Coffee Innovation Park will set a blueprint for the future of coffee roasting and supply chain management, and further elevate China’s coffee industry, while supporting Starbucks growth in China, with China.

“Starbucks has always taken a long-term view in China, and our commitment to the market has never been stronger.”

Earlier this year, Starbucks, alongside Nestlé, unveiled coffee capsules for Nespresso original system.

Starbucks by Nespresso features eight coffee blends, including Blonde Espresso Roast, Colombia, House Blend, Pike Place, Sumatra, Caffe Verona, Espresso Roast and Decaf Espresso Roast.