Starbucks slammed after 'no ladies' sign goes viral

Starbucks has 78 stores in Saudi Arabia, all of which have gender walls to separate single men from potential temptresses— apart from one store, reserved for women and children.

When Starbucks finally responded to the controversy, it explained that the shop’s ban on ladies had been lifted.

“At Starbucks, we adhere to the local customs of Saudi Arabia by providing separate entrances for families as well as single people. In addition, all our stores provide equal amenities, service, menu, and seating to men, women and families,” the company said in a statement to CNN.

“We are working as quickly as possible as we refurbish our Jarir store so that we may again welcome all customers in accordance with local customs.”

This didn’t cut it with the protesters, who began to tweet memes comparing the situation with Apartheid South Africa.