American coffee chain Philz Coffee has decided to remove rainbow flags from its stores. This decision has triggered strong criticism from customers and staff members.

Philz Coffee operates locations in California and Chicago. Many stores had displayed Pride flags, but early this month staff received orders to take them down. Chief Executive Mahesh Sadarangani said: "We are working towards greater unity across all stores. For this reason, we are removing various flags and decorations. This concerns how our stores look, not who we are."

The decision has come at a difficult time. On the petition site Change.org, more than 6,750 people have now signed against the removal. According to Philz Coffee baristas themselves, employees and customers now feel unsupported. The petition states: "The rainbow flags mean a lot to us. They show that everyone is welcome here, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We ask the company to reverse this decision."

Philz Coffee has not yet responded to requests for comment. This incident follows similar situations in other American cities. Boston University previously removed rainbow flags after criticism, and Idaho attempted to ban Pride flags.