The transformation includes walk up windows in suburban areas.
Starbucks announced it will close up to 400 company-operated traditional cafes in North America over the next 18 months and open a “greater number” of new stores in different locations with innovative store formats.
The news, reported in its SEC filings, comes as Starbucks announced plans to accelerate the transformation of its U.S. stores to meet evolving customer needs. The coffee retailer said it will accelerate changes due to a retail environment “shifted because of COVID-19.”
Starbucks will increase "convenience-led" formats in company-operated locations over the next 18 months, with drive-thru and curbside pickup options, as well as Starbucks Pickup locations. These store experiences are powered by the Starbucks App which is integral to ordering and paying ahead, the retailer said.
“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 CEO Kevin Johnson. “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.”
The transformation includes the expansion of new Starbucks Pickup stores in dense markets including New York City, Chicago, Seattle and San Francisco, and enhancements such as curbside, drive-thru and walk up windows in suburban areas.