Starbucks to accelerate expansion of drive-thru, pickup and curbside pickup

American multinational chain of coffee houses Starbucks Over has announced that the next 18 months it will accelerate the transformation of its new store portfolio with the expansion of convenience-led formats such as Drive-Thru.

Starbucks® Pickup and curbside pickup due to a retail environment that has shifted because of COVID-19 and to meet the evolving customer needs of convenience, connection and personalization.

These store experiences are powered by the Starbucks® App which is integral to ordering and paying ahead as well as engaging the company’s 19.4 million Starbucks® Rewards members.

“Starbucks stores have always been known as the ’third place,’ a welcoming place outside of our home and work where we connect over a cup of coffee,” said Kevin Johnson,CEO, Starbucks.

Also, in a letter to stakeholders, Starbucks President and CEO Kevin Johnson and Starbucks chief financial officer Pat Grismer shared more specifics in how the company is accelerating the transformation of the customer and partner experience.

With approximately 80% of Starbucks transactions in U.S. company-operated stores “on-the-go” occasions, the Starbucks leadership team has reexamined the U.S. store footprint with a vision to evolve the Starbucks retail presence over time through targeted store renovations, relocations and new stores and creating a new, elevated experience for partners and customers.

“As we navigate through the COVID-19 crisis, we are accelerating our store transformation plans to address the realities of the current situation, while still providing a safe, familiar and convenient experience for our customers,” added Johnson.