Starbucks plots way out of coronavirus shutdown with mobile tech

Starbucks has unveiled plans to have 90% of its company-operated outlets in the US up and running by early June.

The coffee giant, which has seen sales tumble during the coronavirus outbreak, will begin reopening stores with reduced operations and opening hours in North America next week. About half of its US locations are currently closed.

“Since mid-march, our stores have offered limited service through select drive-thru, grocery and locations located near hospitals and other first responder areas. Starting on 4th May, our stores in the US and Canada will gradually begin to welcome customers using the Starbucks app and a variety of store formats, determined on a store-by-store basis,” the retailer said in a statement emailed to RTIH.

“Through this we will continue to monitor the Covid-19 situation community by community and will adapt how each store serves our customers. Paramount to Starbucks through this process is our ability to serve our customers as safely as possible while working to exceed health and governments requirements.”

Using the app, customers can locate a store to order ahead and pay. In most cases, they will be able to pick up their order from a barista at the door without entering the café, at the drive-thru, or in cases where social distancing can be accommodated pick up may be available at a counter in a store.

For a majority of stores drive-thru only service will continue. While some locations may continue to operate only in this capacity, others will expand their service to include order ahead or grab-and-go. In many US markets, people can also use Starbucks Delivers to have food and beverages brought to their door through Uber Eats.