Since its founding in 1971, Starbucks has been constantly expanding and innovating. Originating in Seattle, Washington, Starbucks now has 22,519 stores worldwide. Every year there is a new innovation, whether it be new coffee, a new acquisition, or a new initiative to help employees and their communities. In 2011, Starbucks launched their mobile app allowing customers to pay for their coffee and treats with a smartphone. The app is simple to use and an easy way to manage all of those gift cards you get for Christmas and your birthday. Starbucks also created a loyalty program through the app that allows users to get free drinks and bakery items after earning a specific amount of stars.
In 2014, Starbucks announced a new service that they were testing in Seattle: mobile order and pay. This service was expanded to all stores in 2015. By using the Starbucks mobile app, customers are able to order their drink from the comfort of their home or office, pick a time and store for pick-up, pay and then pick up at the time specified. Since the coffee is already paid for, customers need only walk into the store and give their name. Since many Starbucks stores are not drive-thrus, this feature is particularly useful for the morning commute. Why wait in line in store when you can order online and have the drink waiting for you when you walk in?
On December 2, 2015, Starbucks issued a press release stating that they were going to start offering a delivery service for customers using the mobile app.
"To bring this delivery experience to life, Starbucks is collaborating with leading on-demand delivery service Postmates for a pilot program, where customers can have Starbucks food or beverages delivered to them within designated areas in Seattle. Starbucks Delivery by Postmates, the latest addition to the company’s digital offerings, is an extension of the Starbucks Mobile Order & Pay feature, a popular aspect of Starbucks app."
The company states that this service is for anyone who wants Starbucks wherever and whenever they want it. Right now, this service is only offered in Seattle and within the Empire State Building in New York City, but if it is successful, it will undoubtedly expand to the rest of the United States.
