A California jury fined Starbucks $50 million on March 14 in a lawsuit filed by a delivery driver who suffered severe burns from a spilled hot tea.
The incident occurred in 2020 at a Los Angeles Starbucks when Michael Garcia, the driver, claimed a poorly packaged drink caused permanent injuries, including organ damage.
Garcia’s attorney, Nick Rowley, said the verdict holds Starbucks accountable for ignoring consumer safety.
Starbucks spokesperson Jessie Anderson expressed sympathy for Garcia but stated the company plans to appeal, calling the fine excessive and disputing liability.
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Starbucks, the world’s largest coffee chain, maintains it adheres to high safety standards. The $50 million fine equals approximately 14 billion Pakistani rupees.
