Jun 04 2008
Starbucks replaces baristas with vending machines
[Coffee Business Strategies]
In a move that directly contradicts the Starbucks’ position of “putting people before products,” the company is reported to be launching vending machines in place of baristas to serve coffee at grocery stores in 8 states.
Starbucks unit brews up self-serve espresso bars
Starbucks Corp. is experimenting with selling espresso drinks from a machine, sans barista.
The company, through its Seattle’s Best Coffee label, has teamed up with Coinstar Inc. and a small Bellevue company, Concordia Coffee Co. Inc., on automated, self-serve espresso kiosks in grocery stores in eight states.
Read more here.
[From me]
I go to Starbucks for the people and the experience. I can go to Wal-Mart for a vending machine. Bad mistake in my opinion.
What do you think?
[HT] Jeff Berg
4 responses so far
Kevin,
If it won’t dispense a tall caramel frappucino, then forget it.
Les Puryear’s last blog post..It’s Still Time For Change
Don’t drink the nasty stuff.
But from what I hear if it is anything like what you get in hospital vending machines, Starbucks is in deep horse doodoo.
Bill(cycleguy)’s last blog post..Pet Peeve
Starbucks? Never!
Last summer, I was in Seattle for a little vacation. My wife and I actually went to the original Starbucks…the very first one!
While that may have been Mecca to some, to me, it was just another bad coffee shop!
I’m with Les, give or a frappucino or nothing.
M. Steve Heartsill’s last blog post..The Danger of NOT Cutting Your Grass
well, i think going to starbu&%$ in the first place is a mistake.
btw, did you notice that they are putting the machines in grocery stores in maryland? i let you know if i come across one…
adam’s last blog post..scary thursday