Customers may see the renovations soon, along with the return of a popular summer drink.
Some Starbucks coffeehouses in California and New York will be remodeled to reflect “authentic coffee house vibes,” according to newly appointed CFO Cathy Smith during a second-quarter earnings call on Tuesday.
Smith emphasized that the changes are being made with “customers in mind” as the company pursues its Back to Starbucks initiative.
CEO Brian Niccol also stated that the “reworked coffeehouses” would soon be visible and would include “premium touches” such as better seating options, ideally encouraging customers to stay longer.
A detailed timeline with dates was not provided.
Overall, Niccol stated that Starbucks would continue to emphasize “craft and connection” and the “green wave of hospitality.”
The “new green apron service model” embodies the green wave.
The model focuses on operational efficiency and simplification in coffeehouses while maintaining the barista-customer connection.
GREEN TEAM
It includes a uniform policy update that focuses on baristas’ signature green apron.
To emphasize the apron, baristas will be asked to wear a black shirt or a long-sleeved crewneck shirt that is collared or buttoned, as well as khaki, black, or blue denim bottoms.
Niccol mentioned that the green apron service model is still being implemented at Starbucks’ over 17,000 locations nationwide.
Several aspects of the Back to Starbucks initiative are already in place, and customers have recently provided positive feedback.
That includes handwritten notes on cups, ceramic mugs for dine-in customers, and a free refill policy.
On the earnings call, Niccol stated that Back to Starbucks has gained “momentum” for the company, despite a “disappointing” sales performance in the quarter.
“At this stage in our turnaround, [earnings per share] should not be used as a measure of success,” the investor told him.
Niccol also noted that wait times, which were previously a source of contention for some customers, had significantly improved.
They are now averaging under four minutes.
DRINK UP
Along with the renovations and continued focus on the Back to Starbucks initiative, customers can expect some drink updates in the coming months.
The CEO confirmed that the popular Berry Lemonade Refresher would return to the summer menu.
It was first introduced in 2024 and quickly became popular.
Customers have already expressed their excitement about the highly anticipated online comeback.
“I can not wait for all of Starbucks to have the summer Berry refresher again,” a longtime fan wrote on X in April.
Others asked the chain to make it happen last month.
“Please bring back the Summer Berry Refresher,” another pleaded.
Other summer menu items include the Iced Horchata Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and the Summer Skies Drink.
Starbucks customers were also divided recently over a 70-cent “customization” fee that appeared on a receipt.
A former barista also revealed a secret hack that allows customers to save $2 on their drink orders.