NEW YORK – Starbucks says guns are no longer welcome in its cafes, though it is stopping short of an outright ban on firearms.

The fine line that the retailer is walking to address the concerns of both gun-rights and gun-control advocates reflects how heated the issue has become in America.

Most U.S. states allow people to openly carry licensed guns in some way, and many companies do not have laws banning firearms in their stores. But Starbucks has become a target for gun-control advocates, in part because of its liberal-leaning corporate image. In turn, gun-rights advocates have been galvanized by the company’s decision to defer to local laws.

In an interview, Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz said the decision to ask customers to stop bringing guns into stores came as a result of the growing frequency of “Starbucks Appreciation Days,” in which gun-rights advocates turned up at Starbucks cafes with firearms.

Schultz said the events mis-characterize the company’s stance on the issue, and the demonstrations “have made our customers uncomfortable.” Schultz hopes people will honor the request not to bring in guns but said the company will nevertheless serve those who do.

Several companies do not allow firearms in their stores, apparently with little trouble. Representatives for Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Whole Foods, for example, said there haven’t been any problems with enforcing their gun bans.