The new policies come as part of a push by Starbucks' new chairman and CEO, Brian Niccol, to reinvigorate the chain's sagging sales. Niccol has said that he wants Starbucks to recapture the community coffeehouse feeling it used to have, before long drive-thru lines, mobile order backups and other issues made visits more of a chore.

The free refills will be served in coffee mugs, glasses, or a clean personal cup brought from home and are only available on the same visit at one store. The refills excludes Cold Brew and Nitro Cold Brew, Iced Tea Lemonade, flavored Iced Tea and Starbucks Refreshers® base. Initial purchase must be made in a reusable cup or “for-here” serveware.

These customers will be able to enjoy free refills on hot brewed or iced coffee, or hot or iced tea during their visit. Starbucks says folks must have their first beverage served in a ceramic mug, glass or personal cup — no disposable vessels — to receive free refills.