At 5:30 p.m. today, all U.S. Starbucks stores will close for three hours. During that time, the company will train its barsitas to create the “Starbucks experience” of excellent drinks and service.
Starbucks saw its first decrease in customers last year. The company acknowledges that service and quality slipped as Starbucks expanded.
If you go to Starbucks tomorrow, comment here – let me know if you notice a difference.
Update – Wednesday morning: After witnessing the training in action as I walked by my local Starbucks last night, I couldn’t resist going to the Franklin St. store this morning. I did notice a difference in both my drink (non-fat latte) and the service. There was a long line that moved quickly with the help of the headset guy taking orders and relaying them to the baristas, the counter staff was making an effort to interact with customers beyond “4.35 please, ” and my latte was just right. I’m interested to see if this lasts.


