RITZVILLE, Wash. -- You might have to drive a little farther for your next cup of coffee as Starbucks closes stores across the nation, including three locations in Spokane and a popular stop in Ritzville.

The closures are hitting small towns like Ritzville particularly hard. While big cities can absorb the loss of a major chain, for smaller communities, losing a Starbucks feels like losing a major investment.

Hundreds of drivers used to stop at the Ritzville Starbucks daily, making it an important community and economic staple.

"That Starbucks was an anchor. Truly an anchor," said Kyle Niehenke of the Adams County Development Council.

More than 20 people lost their jobs due to the closure. Local coffee shops like Liberty Latte, located near I-90, are now facing the challenge of accommo

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