Starbucks debuts new store design with accessible features

[Trendingger]

 

Starbucks, the global coffee giant, is making waves in the digital world with its new accessible store design. This innovative concept, which is trending online, is served up as part of Starbucks’ commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

 

The first of these stores opened in Washington, D.C.'s Union Market. The design, which took about two years to develop, was created with input from Starbucks baristas and is aimed at being more accessible and inclusive for customers and employees with disabilities. Key features include power-operated doors, lower counters, and a new point-of-sale system with an adjustable angle stand, voice assist, screen magnification, and photos of menu items.

 

Behind the counter, the new Clover Vertica system for brewing drip coffee has a more accessible design, with a large dial and protruding buttons. Digital status boards show customers when their drinks are ready to pick up, in addition to baristas calling out their names. The store’s lighting has been adjusted to minimize glare, shadows, and backlighting that can make it more difficult to see. The overall floor plan of the store is free of obstacles and has open sightlines.

 

All future company-owned locations will follow a similar framework. Starbucks plans to open more than 600 new stores this year, increasing its U.S. footprint by 4%, including licensed locations.

 

This move by Starbucks is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive environment in retail spaces. It raises the question: How will this new design impact the customer experience at Starbucks? Will other companies follow suit in designing more accessible spaces? Share your thoughts below.

 

 

Read more:

• https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2024/building-inclusive-spaces-starbucks-announces-new-accessibility-guidelines-for-its-u-s-store-portfolio/
• https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/16/starbucks-has-a-new-accessible-store-design-take-a-look-inside.html
• https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20240216055742/building-inclusive-spaces-starbucks-announces-new-accessibility-guidelines-for-its-us-store-portfolio