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Starbucks, reinvented: a seven-year study on schultz, strategy and reinventing a brilliant brand.

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BY JULIA HANNA

Harvard Business School Professor and historian Nancy Koehn has studied Starbucks and its leader, Howard Schultz , for close to 20 years. For her, the company represents much more than a phenomenal success story.

In a recently published case, "Starbucks Coffee Company: Transformation and Renewal," (available soon) Koehn and coauthors Kelly McNamara, Nora Khan, and Elizabeth Legris trace the dramatic arc of the company's past seven-plus years—a period that saw Starbucks teeter on the brink of insolvency, dig deep to renew its sense of purpose and direction, and launch itself in new, untested arenas that define the company as it exists today.

"This case distills 20 years of my thinking about the most important lessons of strategy, leadership, and managing in turbulence in the frame of a very relevant company," says Koehn, the James E. Robison Professor of Business Administration. "As a brand, leadership, and entrepreneurship scholar, I've been dogging Starbucks for a long time."

On a 1995 trip to Seattle, Koehn visited a Starbucks store for the first time and was struck by what she saw and felt. The notion of a "third place" between home and work to relax and enjoy the small, affordable luxury of a special coffee beverage seemed to resonate with the social and economic moment, she recalls. Six months later she met Howard Schultz, an entrepreneur who acquired the company in 1987, and was struck by his seriousness of purpose and the breadth of what he wanted to accomplish.

Starbucks Chairman Howard Schultz (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The case, Koehn's fourth to focus on Starbucks, opens in February 2007. Schultz, no longer Starbucks' CEO but still its chairman, is worried the company is losing its ability to be true to its values while providing a store experience that conveys a sense of comfort, connection, and respect for its product and the communities Starbucks serves.

So Schultz composed a heartfelt, searching memo to senior leadership. In it, he bemoaned decisions (for which he accepted responsibility) that improved efficiency and increased economies of scale but robbed stores of some of their essential magic, such as the smell of roasting coffee and the sights and sounds of traditional Italian espresso machines and baristas at work.

He also cited the company's rapid expansion and the potential "commoditization" of the Starbucks brand. "[W]e desperately need to look into the mirror and realize it's time to get back to the core and make the changes necessary to evoke the heritage, the tradition, and the passion that we all have for the true Starbucks Experience," Schultz wrote.

The scope and richness of Koehn's case gives it the feel of a page-turning novel; in that sense, Schultz's memo is the inciting action for all that follows.

Remaining True To Core Values

The challenge that had confronted Starbucks in the early- and mid-2000s was one common to many organizations: Could the company continue to grow while preserving its culture and values? In some areas, the drive to expand, egged on by Wall Street, was compromising the company's ability to invest in its partners (Starbucks' term for its employees), deliver personalized customer service, and maintain a close connection to the local community.

In addition, McDonald's and Dunkin' Donuts had emerged as serious competitors, offering their own lines of specialty coffee beverages. Even so, Starbucks' financials for 2007, the year Schultz composed his memo, didn't look so bad. But the entrepreneur became concerned as he dug more deeply into the numbers. Sure, revenues were up almost 21% over the previous year, but had slowed by over a third; transactions per store were up 1%, versus 5% the year before. Same-store sales rose only 5%, the smallest increase in five years.

In January 2008, Schultz returned as Starbucks CEO, replacing Jim Donald, the man he and other senior colleagues had chosen to lead the company.

Starbucks Sails Again

The case chronicles the blizzard of decisions and initiatives that follow what could have been the company's death knell as the financial crisis hit home and consumers cinched their belts.

"Schultz understood that you can't lift your foot off the gas pedal when you're attempting to transform a company," Koehn says. "Severe as its financial needs may be, you also have to figure out what you will invest in. Schultz knew that if he waited until the company was out of the woods to invest in new products, communication channels, and ways of doing business it would be too late—Starbucks would no longer be relevant."

From the start, Schultz sent the clear, unwavering message that Starbucks' transformation would represent a return to its roots and an uncompromising commitment to core values, such as health care benefits for any partners working at least 20 hours a week.

At a March 2008 gathering of 200 senior-level company leaders, Schultz unveiled a Transformation Agenda that included seven "Big Moves":

  • Be the undisputed coffee authority;
  • Engage and inspire our partners;
  • Ignite the emotional attachment with our customers;
  • Expand our global presence—while making each store the heart of a local neighborhood;
  • Be a leader in ethical sourcing and environmental impact;
  • Creative innovation growth platforms worthy of our coffee;
  • Deliver a sustainable economic model.

The case provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the coffee company moved forward on these goals, including the introduction of the milder Pike Place Roast; the story of its VIA Ready Brew line; the launch of a loyalty program; investment in and engagement with social media; focus on a global expansion strategy; and the extension of social programs. The company closed stores, restructured its manufacturing and supply operations, and, perhaps most significantly, took steps to reengage its partners and store managers. In February 2008, Starbucks closed more than 7,000 of its stores across the country for "Espresso Excellence Training," taking the time to work with approximately 135,000 baristas to ensure they could pour a perfect espresso shot and steam milk properly.

For Schultz, however, that wasn't enough—he wanted to reach the company's store managers, recognizing them as essential to the transformation process.

"I needed an unfiltered venue for expressing my empathy about all that we were asking our partners to do and telling them plainly what was at stake," he wrote in Onward: How Starbucks Fought for Its Life without Losing Its Soul . The answer, in Schultz's mind, was a three-day conference in New Orleans in October 2008, a moment when the global economy happened to be tanking. Starbucks' fourth quarter profits were down 97% from the same time a year earlier; for the fiscal year, net earnings were down 53% to $316 million. The Starbucks board was reluctant to send 10,000 partners to New Orleans at a cost of $30 million, but Schultz stuck to his guns.

In addition to rolling up their sleeves and taking part in community service projects to aid areas of the city still recovering from Hurricane Katrina, partners participated in team-building events that reviewed the company's guiding principles and reminded them of their central role in the customer experience. Schultz also brought in Bono, lead singer of U2, to announce a partnership to channel proceeds from holiday beverage sales to the Global Fund in support of AIDS relief programs in Africa.

The New Orleans conference was a turning point for Starbucks; in the "novel" of Koehn's case, it's the climax.

"Investing in a conference of that size is such an unusual thing to do when faced with a cash crunch," Koehn says. "Schultz understood that what saves and breaks businesses is much more than cash. In the midst of so much turbulence, it's all too easy to pull levers on the low-hanging fruit of cash and logistics. But you don't save a business and turn it around without speaking to, focusing, and calling on the spirit of your people."

Schultz's experience qualifies him for closer study in Koehn's HBS course Power and Glory in Turbulent Times: The History of Leadership from Henry V to Steve Jobs. Not all managers are confronted in their careers with the sort of transformation challenge faced by Starbucks, but Schultz's reflections and actions are instructive for anyone charged with finding sources of strength, innovation, and renewal in today's turbulent business environment, Koehn says.

About the author:  Julia Hanna is associate editor of the HBS Alumni Bulletin .

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[Solved]Starbucks Delivering Customer Service Case Study Solution: 5 Questions answered

Starbucks: Delivering Customer Service

Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study comes from HBR. A link to the original case can be found here . The case can be analyzed from the perspectives of marketing, sales improvement, and from a strategic investment point of view. The company is contemplating a strategic investment of $40 Mn to bolster its systems and process to cater to the needs of new customers. We can also analyze Starbucks delivering customer service case study from the standpoint of future organizational vision and reinventing a brand

For more such solved case studies as the Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study, please follow the link

Starbucks delivering customer service case study summary

In 1971, Gerald Baldwin, Gordan Bowker, and Ziev Siegl established a small shop in Seattle’s market. The company excelled at selling whole Arabica beans to coffee purists, a niche market. In 1982, Schultz joined Starbucks. A few years later, Schultz purchased the company. After he ascended to power, new stores opened. Starbucks delivering customer service Case Study also narrates the story of the owners and their vision for the organization in order to deliver a unique customer value

The organization went public. Both whole-bean coffee and coffee with a higher price tag were sold at the stores. By 1992, Starbucks had 140 stores in the Pacific Northwest and Chicago and was competing favorably with smaller coffee chains such as Gloria Jean’s Coffee Bean and Barnie’s Coffee & Tea. In 2002, Starbucks was the most well-known specialty coffee brand in North America. The company’s annual sales and net income grew at a rate of 40% and 50%, respectively. The company had over 5,000 stores worldwide and over 20 million customers.

It focused primarily on marketing at the point of sale and in local stores. The slogan “live coffee” encapsulated Starbucks’ brand positioning. It demonstrated how vital it was to preserve the national coffee culture , which provided customers with a “ experience” comprised of the coffee, the service, and the atmosphere. They were all baristas and were referred to as “partners. ” They believed that if partners were satisfied, so would customers. Consequently, employee turnover was low. When a partner was hired, he or she was required to complete “hard skills” and “soft skills” training in order to connect with customers more effectively.

Several types of matrices, such as monthly status reports and self-reported checklists, were used to evaluate the performance of the service. In addition, they had a mystery shopper program known as “customer overview The shopper rated four “fundamental services.” The company’s goal was to become “the most recognizable and esteemed brand in the world.” Starbucks vice president Christine Day devised a plan to invest an additional $40 million per year in the company’s 4,500 locations. This equates to an additional 20 hours of work per week. They are unsure whether to believe what customers say about customer service and its impact on sales and profits.

Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study: What Contributed to the exceptional positioning of Starbucks in the Coffee Segment?

The extraordinary success of Starbucks in the early 1990s can be attributed to Howard Schultz, who added value propositions to the company by enhancing its services and adding quality to them. Schultz believed that coffee drinking creates an experience in the customer’s mind known as “the third place.”

Contributing to Starbucks’ extraordinary success in the 1990s were:

Starbucks works directly with its growers to maintain the superior quality of its coffee beans, and because all of its stores are company-owned, they are able to maintain tight control over its products and services.

Starbucks trains its partners in both hard and soft skills prior to hiring them in order to foster positive relationships with its customers. They instructed their employees on how to interact with customers by smiling, making eye contact, and remembering their names and preferences.

  • The Customers : Their ‘Just Say Yes’ policy encourages partners to provide the best service possible, even if it exceeds company regulations, and their three-minute serving time enhanced customer satisfaction.
  • Partner satisfaction : Schultz referred to Starbucks’ employees as “Partners,” and the company provides even entry-level employees with health insurance and company stock as a form of incentive. They believe that customer satisfaction depends on the satisfaction of their partners, which is why the company has one of the lowest employee turnover rates in the industry as a result of their promotion strategy of promoting partners within their rank and approximately 70% of the company store manager was an ex-partner.
  •  The atmosphere of Starbucks stores : Schultz’s intention is to create a drinking coffee experience, where people drink coffee not only for its taste and quality but also to enjoy the experience. It is a place where people come to relax and enjoy social interaction, which is why they have comfortable seating areas and the layout of their stores is inviting.
  • Location of the stores: Starbucks stores are situated in high-traffic areas such as office buildings, shopping centers, and university campuses.

The store’s value proposition is so compelling because they provide high-quality premium coffee and services to their customers as a result of their highly controlled supply chain strategy. In addition, they serve additional menu items such as pastries, soda, and juice, and they regularly launch new products. They are so focused on their services that they are familiar with their customers if they frequent the establishment, and their attributes, ambiance, and seating environment are an added value proposition.

Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study: What Factors led to the decline of Customer Satisfaction Scores in the Early 1990s?

The customer satisfaction rating for Starbucks has dropped as a result of a gap between the company’s primary attributes and the expectations that customers have for the brand. Paying a premium price for Starbucks did not make a whole lot of sense because the chain does not stand out in terms of either its image or its products when compared to other, smaller coffee shop chains.

Customers started believing that Starbucks had entered a money-making industry and that the company placed a higher priority on shop expansion than on their satisfaction. On many occasions, “service enhancement” and “service speed” were the areas that required the most improvement. Also shown in the presentation is the fact that 11.34 percent of people believe that improvements to the services they receive could make them feel more valued.

• As shown in Exhibit 10, the majority of respondents (83 percent) believe that maintaining a clean environment is an essential component in achieving high levels of customer satisfaction.

• Because seventy-seven percent of customers placed a high premium on convenience, Starbucks made it a point to open multiple locations across the country.

• Seventy-five percent of customers ranked being treated as a valuable customer as extremely important for the generation of customer happiness, and Starbucks partners made certain to remember their customers’ names, welcome them, and inquire about their preferred drink modification preferences, among other things.

Because of this, asserting that the company’s service has worsened in recent years would be an exaggeration, given that consumers continue to give Starbucks high marks in a variety of other categories. However, Starbucks is becoming increasingly concerned about the lengthening wait times.

Because Starbucks is more concerned with the value of its brand, expansion, and profit than with how customers perceive its coffee, the customer snapshot is not an ideal instrument for measuring customer happiness.

Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study: How did Customer Transform from 1992 to the early 2000s?

The average customer in 2002 was younger than the average customer in 1992, and the average customer in 2002 had less education than the average customer in 1992.

•In 1992, Starbucks’ customers were mostly wealthy people, but by 2002, they also included people with lower incomes.

• The market research team also found that customers used stores, in the same way, no matter where they were or how they were set up.

• In the research, it was also found that the most frequent customers came in an average of 18 times a month, but the average customer only came in five times a month.

• The research team also found out that Starbucks’ customers had changed from wealthy, well-educated, white-collar women between the ages of 24 and 44 to younger customers with less education who wanted more options and took more work to please.

Is it advisable for Starbucks to Invest $40 Mn in its stores and staff? What is the rationale behind the investment and share a mathematical model to justify the investment?

The investment plan called for “relaxing the labor-hour restrictions in the stores” in order to increase the amount of available labor in each store by 20 hours per week at an additional annual cost of $40 million.

Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study: Breakeven Calculations

Analysis of the Profitability of the Investment Plan Investment per Store = $40,000,000 / 5886 stores = $6795.8 per store

$172 is the revenue difference between customers who are satisfied and customers who are extremely satisfied.

For each location to be profitable, $6795.8 must be divided by 172, which equals forty customers. There are 570 customers who shop at each location on a daily basis.

For the company to become profitable, 40 of its 570 existing customers must be upgraded from satisfied to extremely satisfied. Therefore, Starbucks is recommended to invest $40 million in order to increase service speed and decrease the number of satisfied customers who become dissatisfied.

As there is a direct correlation between satisfied customers and loyal customers, this would result in the consumer base’s long-term commitment.

Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study: The rationale behind the  investment

The objective of investing $40 million in labor was to maximize customer satisfaction by converting satisfied customers into highly satisfied customers, thereby increasing revenue. This was accomplished by increasing the level of satisfaction of satisfied customers. Exhibit 10 displays the results of the 2002 consumer survey conducted by Starbucks. According to the survey, approximately 65 percent of Starbucks’ customers consider prompt service to be one of the most important factors in determining their level of satisfaction with their Starbucks coffee experience.

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Starbucks Reinvented

Harvard Business School Professor and historian Nancy Koehn has studied Starbucks and its leader, Howard Schultz, for close to 20 years. For her, the company represents much more than a phenomenal success story.

In a recently published case, "Starbucks Coffee Company: Transformation and Renewal," (available soon) Koehn and coauthors Kelly McNamara, Nora Khan, and Elizabeth Legris trace the dramatic arc of the company's past seven-plus years—a period that saw Starbucks teeter on the brink of insolvency, dig deep to renew its sense of purpose and direction, and launch itself in new, untested arenas that define the company as it exists today.

"This case distills 20 years of my thinking about the most important lessons of strategy, leadership, and managing in turbulence in the frame of a very relevant company," says Koehn, the James E. Robison Professor of Business Administration. "As a brand, leadership, and entrepreneurship scholar, I've been dogging Starbucks for a long time."

On a 1995 trip to Seattle, Koehn visited a Starbucks store for the first time and was struck by what she saw and felt. The notion of a "third place" between home and work to relax and enjoy the small, affordable luxury of a special coffee beverage seemed to resonate with the social and economic moment, she recalls. Six months later she met Howard Schultz, an entrepreneur who acquired the company in 1987, and was struck by his seriousness of purpose and the breadth of what he wanted to accomplish.

The case, Koehn's fourth to focus on Starbucks, opens in February 2007. Schultz, no longer Starbucks' CEO but still its chairman, is worried the company is losing its ability to be true to its values while providing a store experience that conveys a sense of comfort, connection, and respect for its product and the communities Starbucks serves.

starbucks 2002 case study

So Schultz composed a heartfelt, searching memo to senior leadership. In it, he bemoaned decisions (for which he accepted responsibility) that improved efficiency and increased economies of scale but robbed stores of some of their essential magic, such as the smell of roasting coffee and the sights and sounds of traditional Italian espresso machines and baristas at work.

He also cited the company's rapid expansion and the potential "commoditization" of the Starbucks brand. "[W]e desperately need to look into the mirror and realize it's time to get back to the core and make the changes necessary to evoke the heritage, the tradition, and the passion that we all have for the true Starbucks Experience," Schultz wrote.

The scope and richness of Koehn's case gives it the feel of a page-turning novel; in that sense, Schultz's memo is the inciting action for all that follows.

Remaining True To Core Values

The challenge that had confronted Starbucks in the early- and mid-2000s was one common to many organizations: Could the company continue to grow while preserving its culture and values? In some areas, the drive to expand, egged on by Wall Street, was compromising the company's ability to invest in its partners (Starbucks' term for its employees), deliver personalized customer service, and maintain a close connection to the local community.

In addition, McDonald's and Dunkin' Donuts had emerged as serious competitors, offering their own lines of specialty coffee beverages. Even so, Starbucks' financials for 2007, the year Schultz composed his memo, didn't look so bad. But the entrepreneur became concerned as he dug more deeply into the numbers. Sure, revenues were up almost 21 percent over the previous year, but had slowed by over a third; transactions per store were up 1 percent, versus 5 percent the year before. Same-store sales rose only 5 percent, the smallest increase in five years.

In January 2008, Schultz returned as Starbucks CEO, replacing Jim Donald, the man he and other senior colleagues had chosen to lead the company.

Starbucks Sails Again

The case chronicles the blizzard of decisions and initiatives that follow what could have been the company's death knell as the financial crisis hit home and consumers cinched their belts.

"Schultz understood that you can't lift your foot off the gas pedal when you're attempting to transform a company," Koehn says. "Severe as its financial needs may be, you also have to figure out what you will invest in. Schultz knew that if he waited until the company was out of the woods to invest in new products, communication channels, and ways of doing business it would be too late—Starbucks would no longer be relevant."

From the start, Schultz sent the clear, unwavering message that Starbucks' transformation would represent a return to its roots and an uncompromising commitment to core values, such as health care benefits for any partners working at least 20 hours a week.

At a March 2008 gathering of 200 senior-level company leaders, Schultz unveiled a Transformation Agenda that included seven "Big Moves":

  • Be the undisputed coffee authority;
  • Engage and inspire our partners;
  • Ignite the emotional attachment with our customers;
  • Expand our global presence—while making each store the heart of a local neighborhood;
  • Be a leader in ethical sourcing and environmental impact;
  • Creative innovation growth platforms worthy of our coffee;
  • Deliver a sustainable economic model.

The case provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the coffee company moved forward on these goals, including the introduction of the milder Pike Place Roast; the story of its VIA Ready Brew line; the launch of a loyalty program; investment in and engagement with social media; focus on a global expansion strategy; and the extension of social programs. The company closed stores, restructured its manufacturing and supply operations, and, perhaps most significantly, took steps to reengage its partners and store managers. In February 2008, Starbucks closed more than 7,000 of its stores across the country for "Espresso Excellence Training," taking the time to work with approximately 135,000 baristas to ensure they could pour a perfect espresso shot and steam milk properly.

For Schultz, however, that wasn't enough—he wanted to reach the company's store managers, recognizing them as essential to the transformation process.

"I needed an unfiltered venue for expressing my empathy about all that we were asking our partners to do and telling them plainly what was at stake," he wrote in Onward: How Starbucks Fought for Its Life without Losing Its Soul . The answer, in Schultz's mind, was a three-day conference in New Orleans in October 2008, a moment when the global economy happened to be tanking. Starbucks' fourth quarter profits were down 97 percent from the same time a year earlier; for the fiscal year, net earnings were down 53 percent to $316 million. The Starbucks board was reluctant to send 10,000 partners to New Orleans at a cost of $30 million, but Schultz stuck to his guns.

In addition to rolling up their sleeves and taking part in community service projects to aid areas of the city still recovering from Hurricane Katrina, partners participated in team-building events that reviewed the company's guiding principles and reminded them of their central role in the customer experience. Schultz also brought in Bono, lead singer of U2, to announce a partnership to channel proceeds from holiday beverage sales to the Global Fund in support of AIDS relief programs in Africa.

The New Orleans conference was a turning point for Starbucks; in the "novel" of Koehn's case, it's the climax.

"Investing in a conference of that size is such an unusual thing to do when faced with a cash crunch," Koehn says. "Schultz understood that what saves and breaks businesses is much more than cash. In the midst of so much turbulence, it's all too easy to pull levers on the low-hanging fruit of cash and logistics. But you don't save a business and turn it around without speaking to, focusing, and calling on the spirit of your people."

Schultz's experience qualifies him for closer study in Koehn's HBS course Power and Glory in Turbulent Times: The History of Leadership from Henry V to Steve Jobs. Not all managers are confronted in their careers with the sort of transformation challenge faced by Starbucks, but Schultz's reflections and actions are instructive for anyone charged with finding sources of strength, innovation, and renewal in today's turbulent business environment, Koehn says.

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The Business Rule

Case Study Of Starbucks: How Starbucks Became The Coffee King?

Supti Nandi

Updated on: April 25, 2024

Case Study of Starbucks

Starbucks, a brand that became synonymous with coffee has created a sensation in the world with its coffeehouse culture. Have you wondered how? Well, to answer this question we will delve into the case study of Starbucks.

Case Study of Starbucks

Stay tuned!

(A) Starbucks: A Brief Overview

Let’s buckle up for a Starbucks journey! Founded back in 1971, this coffee giant now reigns supreme as the world’s largest coffeehouse chain, with its home base in the city of Seattle, Washington.

Before diving deeper into the Starbucks case study, let’s have a look at the company’s profile-

Coffee Shop
March 30, 1971
Jerry Baldwin,
Zev Siegl,
Gordon Bowker
Starbucks Center, Seattle, Washington, U.S
38,038
84 Countries
Mellody Hobson (Chairwoman),
Laxman Narasimhan (CEO)
Coffee Beverages,
Smoothies,
Tea,
Baked Goods,
Sandwiches

Fast forward to November 2022, and you’ve got Starbucks waving its coffee wand in a staggering 35,711 stores across 80 countries. And when you zoom in on the U.S., you’re looking at a whopping 15,873 Starbucks hotspots. 

Here’s the scoop – over 8,900 are Starbucks-run, and the rest are running under licensed partnerships.

Now, let’s talk coffee vibes. Starbucks is the unsung hero of the second wave of coffee culture, dishing out an array of coffee delights. Think hot espresso, chill Frappuccinos, and a lineup of pastries and snacks that’s strong enough to trigger your taste buds.

Oh, and did you know some Starbucks treats are exclusive to certain locations? How? You may wonder. Well, here’s a bonus – most Starbucks joints worldwide offer free Wi-Fi. Coffee and connectivity – a match made in heaven.

So there you have it – the Starbucks saga! 

(B) Business Overview of Starbucks Case Study

Understanding the business perspective is one of the essential parts of the Starbucks case study. Reason? You will get to know how Starbucks is performing in the market in terms of financials and business.

Go through the table given below-

$105.82 billion
$35.976 billion
$4.62 billion
$3.28 billion
$27.98 billion
-$8.70 billion
$30.584 billion
$25.108 billion

In today’s date, the coffee giant is flexing a market capitalization of a whopping $105.82 billion – that’s some serious coffee beans.

Now, rewind to 2023, and Starbucks made it rain with a revenue of $35.976 billion. But what about the nitty-gritty? Operating income in 2022 hit $4.62 billion, while net income settled at $3.28 billion. These aren’t just numbers; they’re the financial pillars of Starbucks.

That’s not all!

Hold onto your coffee cups; we’re diving into assets and equity. Total assets in 2022 clocked in at $27.98 billion – that’s like a treasure chest of coffee goodness. But here’s a twist – total equity dipped to -$8.70 billion. It’s like a plot twist in a coffee-fueled drama.

Business of Starbucks

Now, let’s talk about expenses and profits. In 2023, expenses tallied up to $30.584 billion, but here’s the kicker – profits soared to $25.108 billion. 

That’s like balancing a delicate espresso shot with a mountain of whipped cream.

In a nutshell, Starbucks isn’t just brewing coffee; it’s a financial powerhouse, stirring up a caffeinated storm in the business world.

(C) History of Starbucks: Timeline & Key Events

Coming to the third part of the Starbucks case study, let’s delve into the history of Starbucks-

Starbucks considers blockchain technology for bean-to-cup tracking. Two men were arrested in a Philadelphia store, leading to company-wide training.
Starbucks moves its store to 1912 Pike Place. During this time, only coffee beans are sold, not drinks.
Original owners purchase Peet’s Coffee.
Howard Schultz, former marketing director, buys Starbucks and begins rapid expansion. The first locations outside Seattle open in Vancouver and Chicago. 
Starbucks has 46 stores across the Pacific Northwest and Midwest, roasting over 2 million pounds of coffee annually.  
Starbucks goes public with 140 outlets and a market value of $271 million. 
Starbucks acquires The Coffee Connection, gaining rights to the “Frappuccino” beverage. Introduced under the Starbucks name in 1995. 
Starbucks experiments with eateries under the Circadia brand. Also acquires Pasqua Coffee.
Starbucks acquires Seattle’s Best Coffee and Torrefazione Italia. 
Starbucks purchases most of Diedrich Coffee’s retail stores. 
Starbucks starts the “My Starbucks Idea” website and acquires a Coffee Equipment Company, introducing the Clover Brewing System.  
The operator of Starbucks locations in Brazil, SouthRock Capital, declares bankruptcy, restructuring through the procedure.
Starbucks closes newspaper sales, and kiosks, and opens its largest store on Michigan Avenue, Chicago.
Due to COVID-19, Starbucks temporarily closes café-only stores, facing sales decrease.  
Starbucks explores selling its UK stores.
Starbucks sells all its stores in Russia to Timati after months of suspension due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.  
Howard Schultz steps down as CEO; Laxman Narasimhan becomes the new CEO. 
Narasimhan works as a barista to stay close to customers. Starbucks was ordered to pay damages in a discrimination case.  
Operator of Starbucks locations in Brazil, SouthRock Capital, declares bankruptcy, restructuring through the procedure.

Founded in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker at Seattle’s Pike Place Market, Starbucks underwent pivotal changes in ownership and leadership. In the early 1980s, Howard Schultz acquired the company and transformed it into a coffee shop, introducing espresso-based drinks after being inspired during a business trip to Milan, Italy.

Schultz served as CEO from 1986 to 2000, orchestrating an expansive franchise expansion across the West Coast.

Orin Smith succeeded Schultz, focusing on fair trade coffee and boosting sales to US$5 billion. Jim Donald took the helm from 2005 to 2008, overseeing substantial earnings expansion. Schultz returned during the 2007–08 financial crisis, steering the company towards growth, expanded offerings, and a commitment to corporate social responsibility. Kevin Johnson assumed the CEO role in 2017.

In March 2022, Starbucks announced Schultz’s return as interim CEO in April 2022, with Laxman Narasimhan appointed to succeed him in April 2023. Narasimhan assumed the position earlier, in March 2023.

Beyond beverages and food, Starbucks stores offer official merchandise and select locations to provide “Starbucks Evenings” with beer, wine, and appetizers. The company’s products, including coffee, ice cream, and bottled drinks, are available in grocery stores globally. The Starbucks Reserve program, initiated in 2010 for single-origin coffees and high-end shops, has evolved. Starbucks operates six roasteries with tasting rooms and 43 coffee bars. 

The company faced controversies but maintains substantial brand loyalty, market share, and value. As of 2022, Starbucks ranks 120th on the Fortune 500 and 303rd on the Forbes Global 2000.

(D) Significance of Logo in Starbucks Case Study

Logo Evolution of Starbucks

Let’s delve into the details of the Starbucks logo evolution. In its inception in 1971, the original Starbucks logo featured a complex design comprising a two-tailed mermaid or siren, encompassed by a wordmark. This design was a visual nod to the brand’s early identity and origins. The mermaid, with its twin tails, was a dual representation of the sea and Seattle, the birthplace of Starbucks.

As the brand progressed, the logo underwent a significant transformation. The evolution saw a shift towards simplicity, as the wordmark surrounding the mermaid was phased out. This marked the beginning of the modern Starbucks logo we recognize today. 

The current emblem showcases a simplified and stylized green siren enclosed within a matching green ring, emphasizing a cleaner and more focused visual identity.

Beyond aesthetics, the modern logo carries symbolic weight. The green mermaid within the circle has become an iconic representation of Starbucks’ commitment to delivering high-quality coffee experiences. 

Additionally, it reflects the brand’s emphasis on creating a sense of community that extends beyond geographical boundaries.

In essence, the evolution of the Starbucks logo is a journey from a detailed and intricate design to a streamlined and symbolic representation. It mirrors the brand’s growth, emphasizing its roots, dedication to quality, and the broader cultural impact it seeks to make through coffee and community.

(E) Market Penetration Strategy: How Starbucks became the coffee king?

In this section, we will look into the key plans and actions that helped Starbucks gain a strong foothold in the beverage and cafe industry.

In 1984, Starbucks, led by Jerry Baldwin, made a strategic move by acquiring Peet’s, a significant step in their journey.
During the 1980s, espresso sales in the U.S. were declining overall. However, a new trend emerged – the popularity of specialty espresso. By 1989, these specialty brews constituted 10% of the market, a notable increase from 3% in 1983. In 1986, Starbucks operated just six stores in Seattle and was only starting to sell coffee.
In 1987, the original owners handed over Starbucks to Howard Schultz, its former manager. Schultz swiftly rebranded his II Giornale espresso outlets as Starbucks, marking the beginning of an extensive expansion. Starbucks ventured beyond Seattle, opening outlets in Vancouver, British Columbia, and Chicago, Illinois. By 1989, the company had 46 stores spanning the Northwest and Midwest, roasting over 2 million pounds of coffee annually.
In June 1992, Starbucks made its debut on the stock market with an initial public offering (IPO). At this point, Starbucks boasted 140 outlets and generated $73.5 million in revenue, a significant surge from $1.3 million in 1987. The IPO raised about $25 million, fueling a doubling of store numbers over the next two years.
By July 2013, Starbucks embraced mobile technology, with over 10% of in-store purchases made through the Starbucks app. The company leveraged social media with the “Tweet-a-Coffee” campaign in October 2013, allowing users to gift a $5 voucher via Twitter.
As of 2018, Starbucks ranked 132nd on the Fortune 500 list. In July 2019, Starbucks reported a robust financial performance, with a third-quarter net income of $1.37 billion, representing a significant increase from the previous year. The company’s estimated value reached $110.2 billion, showing a remarkable 41% growth in 2019.

Starbucks continues to blend innovation and growth, navigating the ever-changing landscape of the coffee industry.

(F) Starbucks Entry in India: Core of Starbucks Case Study

In 2012, Starbucks initiated its venture into India through a significant 50:50 joint venture with Tata Consumer Products Ltd. The inaugural flagship store, which opened its doors on October 19th, 2012, found its home in the historic Elphinstone Building in Mumbai. 

The architectural design of this store ingeniously merged Starbucks’ global coffee legacy with the vibrant local culture, creating a welcoming space for community and connection. Over time, this Mumbai location evolved into India’s first Starbucks Reserve® Store, setting the stage for an elevated coffee experience.

(F.1) The Starbucks Reserve® Store Unveiled: A Coffee Lover’s Haven

The introduction of the Starbucks Reserve® Store marked a milestone in the coffee giant’s presence in India. Spanning an impressive 5,200 square feet, this store greeted customers with the intoxicating aroma of coffee. 

The entrance featured a stunning monolithic terrazzo Reserve bar, a masterpiece crafted by local artisans. Trained black apron coffee masters curated an exceptional coffee experience, showcasing rare and exquisite brews through various brewing methods. 

This Reserve Store was not just a coffee shop; it was a canvas for creating unique moments of connection through the artistry of coffee.

(F.2) Expanding Horizons: Tata Starbucks’ Nationwide Presence

Starbucks in India

Tata Starbucks established a substantial footprint, operating 350+ stores spread across 36 cities in India. In a significant achievement in 2022, Starbucks executed its largest single-year expansion in India, reaching 14 new cities. The brand’s influence spanned major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Pune, and more.

(F.3) Coffee Blends Celebrating Indian Flavors and Heritage

Starbucks paid homage to India’s rich coffee heritage by introducing special blends. The India Estates Blend, sourced from estates in Coorg and Chikmagalur, the birthplace of coffee in India, made its debut in 2013. Additionally, the Diwali Blend, introduced in 2020, served as a tribute to India’s vibrant culture and longstanding coffee traditions.

(F.4) The Tata Alliance: A Successful Partnership

Starbucks in India proudly bore the branding “Starbucks Coffee – A Tata Alliance,” underscoring the synergy between Starbucks and Tata Global Beverages.

Starbucks’ journey in India was not merely about coffee; it was about brewing connections, transcending cultural boundaries, and crafting unforgettable coffee experiences that resonated with the diverse tapestry of India.

(G) Business and Marketing Strategies of Starbucks in India

Starbucks, despite entering India’s coffee scene with strong strategies, faced challenges in a market dominated by competitors like Cafe Coffee Day and Barista Lavazza. Unlike the U.S., where coffee is a staple, India is traditionally a tea-drinking country. 

Starbucks aimed to create a space for relaxation, blending its global coffee legacy with local culture.

Let’s look at the business and marketing strategies of Starbucks in India-

Choosing TATA Global Beverages as a local partner showcased Starbucks’ understanding of leveraging indigenous advantages. This partnership allowed Starbucks to source beans from Tata’s Karnataka plant, ensuring cost-effectiveness and synergy. The TATA group’s ethical brand image aligned well with Starbucks’ values.
Starbucks maintained a consistent store layout across India, focusing on customer experience and benefiting from economies of scale on capital expenses. This approach differentiated Starbucks from competitors like Cafe Coffee Day, which experimented with various formats.
Starbucks adopted a measured pace of expansion, focusing on the financial viability of each outlet. This approach contrasted with its aggressive expansion strategy in the U.S. and China. Starbucks prioritized the long-term sustainability of each location in the Indian market.
The commitment from top leadership, both from Tata and Starbucks, played a crucial role in Starbucks’ cautious entry into the Indian market. The six-year planning period showcased a thorough understanding of the complex Indian market.
Adapting to Indian culture, Starbucks offered a mix of Western staples and unique Indian snacks, ensuring relevance and sustained consumption. The “third place” concept was tailored with local touches, such as henna designs in New Delhi’s store and collectibles in Pune’s store.
Starbucks established a localized business model, emphasizing sustainability in coffee sourcing. The collaboration with Tata facilitated not only sourcing advantages but also an investment in sustainable farming practices.
Starbucks introduced Indian-style products, including Tandoori Paneer Roll and Chocolate Rossomalai Mousse, catering to local tastes. Collaborating with Tata Global Beverages, Starbucks launched the “Teavana” tea brand, with offerings specifically crafted for the Indian market.
Starbucks proactively managed perceptions and adhered to regulations by suspending the use of ingredients not approved by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This demonstrated a commitment to transparency and compliance.
Starbucks embraced localization not only in in-store designs but also in hiring and training local staff. This approach enhanced community engagement and facilitated seamless integration into the Indian market.

In short, Starbucks’ journey in India reflects a careful blend of global strategies and localized approaches, aiming to create a unique and sustainable presence in a market with diverse preferences and cultural nuances. The success indicators appear promising, showcasing Starbucks’ commitment to long-term growth and meaningful community integration.

Note: Do you know Starbucks collaborated with Apple during the horizontal marketing in the US? We have covered it thoroughly here- Horizontal Marketing System . You can check it out for detailed information.

(H) Wrapping Up the Case Study of Starbucks

Starbucks Growth Strategy

The Case Study of Starbucks unveils a fascinating journey that transformed Starbucks into the reigning coffee king. What started as a local coffee bean store in Seattle’s Pike Place Market in 1971 boomed into a global coffee empire. The strategic moves, like Howard Schultz’s visionary shift to espresso-based drinks, had set the stage for Starbucks’ aggressive expansion.

Throughout its evolution, Starbucks faced challenges, leadership changes, and controversies, but resilience and strategic pivots marked its trajectory. The decision to focus on corporate social responsibility under Schultz’s leadership during the financial crisis showcased Starbucks’ adaptability.

The engagement with local cultures, from the iconic two-tailed mermaid symbol to store designs reflecting regional aesthetics, contributed to Starbucks’ success. Key partnerships, like the one with TATA in India, demonstrated a keen understanding of local markets.

Starbucks’ commitment to quality, community, and sustainability resonated with consumers globally. From unique store experiences to tailored product launches, Starbucks consistently adapted its offerings to cater to diverse tastes.

In essence, the Case Study of Starbucks illuminates a narrative of coffee, community, and corporate strategy, culminating in Starbucks’ reign as the coffee king. 

The journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, brand loyalty, and a steaming cup of coffee that transcends borders, making Starbucks an integral part of daily rituals worldwide!

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Starbucks International Strategy - A Case Study for Global Success

Starbucks International Strategy - A Case Study for Global Success

Ever since Starbucks opened its first store outside North America in Tokyo in 1996, the coffee giant has relentlessly pursued global expansion . Today, Starbucks has over 32,000 stores spanning more than 80 countries worldwide, successfully spreading its coffee culture on a global scale. At the heart of Starbucks' phenomenal international business success lies a strategic multi-domestic approach that balances maintaining a consistent global brand with adeptly adapting to local cultures.

Through rigorous market research, cultural sensitivity, strategic partnerships, and premium positioning, Starbucks has seamlessly integrated into diverse international markets while retaining its core identity. This case study examines the key components of Starbucks international strategy, including cultural adaptation, strategic expansion phases, partnership models, and lessons that can be drawn from its international success. The systematic and thoughtful approach demonstrates how consistent brand execution combined with local customization can pave the way for global triumph.

Starbucks' Multidomestic Strategy

The framework that best describes Starbucks' internationalization approach is the multi-domestic strategy. As per this strategy, companies focus on individual foreign markets, treating each market as a separately competitive arena. It emphasizes low integration and high responsiveness.

For Starbucks, this has meant tailoring its products, marketing campaigns, store designs and operations to suit the unique preferences and customs of each local market. While maintaining consistency in quality, branding and customer experience core, it delegates decision-making powers to local franchisees. This allows them to adapt menus, aesthetic elements and promotional activities to match the local customer psyche.

Market Entry Strategies

When entering new markets, Starbucks uses three broad strategies - wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint ventures and licensing. Wholly owned stores give it full control in developed markets with sufficient market understanding like the US, and Canada.

Joint ventures allow leveraging local partner's networks and expertise to establish a foothold in relatively new markets. A prominent case is its joint venture with a Chinese company for China operations.

Licensing is used for quick expansion by granting local partners rights to use the Starbucks brand and set up stores as franchisees. Royalty and fee-based models require low investment while increasing footprint. These tailored entry modes have supported Starbucks' phased globalization process.

Cultural Sensitivity and Customization

Upon entering new markets, Starbucks conducts extensive research to gain cultural insights before store operations even begin. The brand meticulously analyzes local coffee drinking habits, social norms, and economic conditions to understand nuanced preferences. This data-driven approach informs strategic decisions on store layouts, menu customization, and marketing tactics tailored to the host country.

For example, in Japan, Starbucks offers matcha-infused beverages and traditional Japanese decor derived from research revealing local tea-drinking traditions. In China, Starbucks embraces the "ganbei" culture by creating a welcoming environment for social gatherings aligned with drinking customs. Regional preferences are also respected through customized food items—China sees xiaolongbao dumplings while India indulges in masala chai lattes.

By thoughtfully integrating localized flavors, Starbucks seamlessly blends into diverse coffee cultures while maintaining the consistent quality expected of the premium brand. This cultural sensitivity enables the establishment of an authentic local presence, resonating deeply with consumers and expediting market penetration. International success is founded upon such adaptive strategies embracing rather than confronting local identities.

Strategic Partnerships and Co-Owned Stores

Strategic partnerships with local enterprises are another cornerstone of Starbucks' international growth model. Such alliances confer several advantages—joint ventures leverage local expertise, gain government approvals rapidly, and share risks associated with new markets.

Notable examples include the 1998 partnership with Sazaby Café in Japan granting entry into a market protective of domestic firms. In China, collaborations with Kong Group and Maxim's Caterers facilitated swift expansion capitalizing on local supply chains. Most recently, Starbucks joined hands with Tata Group to spearhead robust growth across India leveraging the conglomerate's operational experience.

Co-owned stores following the joint venture model account for one-third of Starbucks' international presence. Local partners provide in-depth cultural understanding while Starbucks delivers consistent brand qualities. Such symbiotic relationships accelerate internationalization by overcoming regulatory hurdles through political familiarity and minimizing liability in uncertain environments. Successful partnerships exemplify mutual growth stemming from shared knowledge and aspirations.

Premium Positioning and Consistent Quality

Despite localized adaptations, Starbucks retains a notable premium positioning worldwide through the consistent execution of its brand. Stores exude sleek minimalism broadcast globally through meticulous design standards. Barista training manuals impart uniform customer service skills across borders to complement the quality drinking experience.

Most distinctively, product sourcing ensures coffee excellence irrespective of location. Green coffee beans are sourced sustainably from over 30 countries and then roasted in seven global processing plants to an identical profile. This commitment to quality justifies slightly higher prices while differentiating the Starbucks experience. Loyal patrons trust consistent flavors upon each international visit, reinforced by a premium brand image.

Globally standardized processes streamline operations for multinational firms yet risk cultural insensitivity. Starbucks balances such trade-offs through its multi-domestic approach—autonomous subsidiaries complement centralized quality controls yielding localization without compromising integrity. Premium branding and attention to detail regardless of borders bolster brand equity on a global scale .

Strategic Expansion Stages

Starbucks' international growth has unfolded strategically in stages, continually adapting its model to diverse conditions in new frontiers. Initial steps focused on contiguous expansion throughout North America and Europe utilizing company-operated stores. Entry into more complex Asian markets saw the rise of adaptive joint ventures and strategic local partnerships.

Most recently, emerging economies present immense opportunities alongside challenges requiring inventive solutions. India saw customized training programs while China leveraged mobile and delivery services to accommodate urbanization. Lessons from each phase cultivate more sophisticated strategies, preserving Starbucks' competitive advantage amidst disruptive global dynamics.

The multi-phased journey reflects an evolutionary approach, not passive diffusion. Careful strategic planning and experimentation have accelerated learning curves, solving problems before widespread proliferation. Cohesive long-term visions balance short-term wins, prioritizing sustainable partnerships over rapid numbers. Starbucks embraces diverse conditions rather than imposing standard blueprints, catalyzing tailored prosperity in every market.

Keys to International Success

Starbucks' case provides valuable insights for brands venturing overseas. Internationalization demands considering local markets as unique rather than homogeneous replicas—deep cultural understanding precedes standardized systems. Strategic alliances confer benefits unavailable to independent operations such as local relationships increasing trust from skeptical markets.

Consistency distinguishes premium brands yet risks cultural detachment—the delicate balance respects local identities amid consistent qualities. Thoughtful long-term visions navigate complexity better than imitations focusing on short-term gains. Success stems from integrating rather than confronting foreign environments by capitalizing on diverse contributions. International growth necessitates agility, learning evolving alongside expanding frontiers.

Current Positioning and Future Outlook

Today Starbucks is a globally recognized brand with a respected image of consistent quality and feel-good customer experience across 80+ nations. However, constantly shifting competitive dynamics and evolving consumer preferences pose new tests.

While Starbucks is well-poised to capture opportunities in still untapped developing geographies leveraging its learnings, local economic volatilities and rising indie cafe trends can impede future plans. Developing new service formats like drive-thrus, mobile ordering, and expanded delivery also becomes critical.

Sustaining differentiation through the premiumization of beverages, newer format stores, innovative loyalty programs and deeper forays in coffee education will determine Starbucks' longevity. Overall, its consistent strategy of blending global vision with local insights wields it an advantage for continued worldwide growth.

In conclusion, Starbucks provides an exemplary case study on designing and implementing a successful international strategy. The keys to its global dominance have been its multi-domestic approach balancing standardization with localisation, research-backed cultural sensitivity, strategic partnerships , consistent branding and marketing effectiveness.

Most significantly, its ability to thoughtfully adapt products, menus, designs, and communications as per every unique market setting while staying true to quality and experience mantras, earned it loyal customer communities worldwide. If replicated judiciously, such well-rounded strategies can become globally replicable models for other aspiring brands.

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How Starbucks pulled itself out of the 2008 financial meltdown

Reinventing itself: The first Starbucks outlet in India in South Mumbai. (Photo: Rachit Goswami)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The world's largest coffee retailer, Starbucks, pulled itself out of the financial meltdown of 2008 by aligning its operations with customer demands through social media. This case study looks at what the company did right to achieve this turnaround.

This was one of the reasons why the company took a hit during the economic slowdown of 2008 as customers opted for cheaper options for their everyday coffee. Starbucks was forced to shut 600 shops that were not making profits. By March 30, 2008, its profit had fallen 28 per cent compared to the same period in 2007. In 2009, it closed another 300 stores and laid off 6,700 employees.

On January 8, 2008, Howard D. Schultz returned as CEO of Starbucks after a gap of eight years, replacing Jim Donald. Schultz had nurtured the company since 1982 when it had only four outlets. He had served as CEO from 1987 to 2000 and had presided over the companys public offering in 1992.

starbucks 2002 case study

"The previous leadership had blamed the economy and the higher cost of dairy products for the slump in business. They had also stated this as a reason to hike prices. However, Schultz took an entirely different view of the situation. He told the employees, "The company shouldn't just blame the economy; Starbucks's heavy spending to accommodate its expansion has created a bureaucracy that masked its problems."

In a departure from conventional strategies like "a redo of the store layout", Starbucks soon embarked on a technology-oriented strategy. An environment where employees could think freely about the organisation and contribute in terms of strategies and ideas was fostered. As a result, a community involvement concept was developed.

In March 2008, "My Starbucks Idea" was rolled out for customers to exchange ideas with each other and directly with the company. As part of this, customers were able to give opinions on everything such as products, services, layout, advertising, corporate social responsibility, in-store music and so on. More than 93,000 ideas were shared by about 1.3 million users on social media, and page views per month rose to 5.5 million.

After the 2007/08 crisis, Starbucks had to rebuild its customer relationships and show the world that it cared for quality and consistency. It also had to give a leg up to the altruistic component of the brand such as community building and care for the environment. Through the "My Starbucks Idea" customers had a direct link with the headquarters and of course Starbucks was listening. Soon Starbucks's ubiquity became an asset as customers from around the world had an opportunity to connect with each other, spawning like-minded communities like the 'free Wi-Fi group', 'soy group', 'comfy chair group' or 'frappuccino lovers'.

Starbucks implemented over 100 ideas. Through this initiative, the coffee retailer built a robust fan base. By giving customers a platform to voice their ideas and views on the brand and by responding to it, it was able to reignite the brand trust.

Starbucks soon realised that it had to project its 'cool' element via social media-based marketing. The organisation must never look desperate or too keen to increase its sales. So the company refrained from pushing too many products, causes or offers to its followers. The focus was more on building and engaging with the community.

One of the accidental tweets from Starbucks was just a smiley face that received a lot of admiration from the community. Tweets such as 'keep calm and make coffee' is in line with its idea of keeping a cool image and building a community. Starbucks's use of social media points to the fine balance it maintained between spontaneous and well-planned posts. The social media platforms have also helped the company swiftly mitigate and manage any information that causes harm to its global identity. In 2009, when rumours of Starbucks's profits being spent on Israel army surfaced, the company used the social media outlets effectively to refute it and restore its image of a peace-loving organisation. MOBILE APPS

The company embraced mobile apps much before its competitors. Very early in the race, Starbucks had linked its social media strategy objectives with technology channels like mobile apps. It was carefully designed to appeal to the masses and specifically to the segment that made up its online community. Through its iPhone app features like store locator, nutrition-based information and rewards programme, it integrated and enhanced its social media community fabric. The head start in technology adoption has helped the company come up with trend-setting ideas.

One of them was the move to help its customers personalise the company's offerings. The initiative, 'MyStarbucksSignature' allowed consumers to develop their own signature drinks (hot or cold coffee), name the drink and share the new flavour with the community. In this way, Starbucks informs the consumer of the wide range of product offering they have at their stores across the world. It also shows the consumer how to order this cup and what it will look like. The only modification a consumer can do in his or her signature drink is in the ingredient mix and quantity. This way the supply network is only slightly disrupted at the retail and service end. Everything else related to ingredients and distribution remains completely untouched.

In 2008, the marketing teams had started a promotion to increase customer visits to stores during breakfast hours. It included a free pastry with a coffee bought before 10:30 a.m. The initiative created traction online and over one million people across the US queued up at Starbucks outlets.

Such social media promotions were much less expensive than the companys promotions at its stores or putting up billboards across cities. The awareness and response was also more than that from promotions through traditional channels like television advertisements.

Employees and baristas too were always an integral part of Starbucks online and social media community. It has a separate page for its employees, which is used to generate and debate ideas.

An example of employees contributing to its success is its Twitter page. The chain's voice on Twitter is 28-year-old Brad Nelson, a former barista. In 2008, when the company was looking for ideas to re-engage with its customers, Nelson suggested that he could begin a Twitter handle for the brand. Today, Starbucks has 775,000 followers.

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Starbucks Coffee Company in the 21st Century

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starbucks 2002 case study

Nancy F. Koehn

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COMMENTS

  1. PDF 2002 Corporate Social Responsibility Report

    The corporate social responsibility policies and activities of Starbucks as described in the Report are fairly presented and are consistent with the actual policies implemented and acted upon by Starbucks management and personnel during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2002. Statements, assertions and data disclosed in the Report are ...

  2. Starbucks case analysis

    generate more profit. This is from a survey Starbucks conducted in 2002 that stated 65% of customers wanted faster service (exhibit 10 in the case study). Starbucks found customers would leave the store if they had to wait for the coffee, and if they can cut service time then more customers would be served.

  3. Starbucks, Reinvented: A Seven-Year Study On Schultz, Strategy And

    The answer, in Schultz's mind, was a three-day conference in New Orleans in October 2008, a moment when the global economy happened to be tanking. Starbucks' fourth quarter profits were down 97% ...

  4. [Solved]Starbucks Delivering Customer Service Case Study ...

    In 2002, Starbucks was the most well-known specialty coffee brand in North America. The company's annual sales and net income grew at a rate of 40% and 50%, respectively. The company had over 5,000 stores worldwide and over 20 million customers. ... For more such solved case studies as the Starbucks Delivering Customer Service case study, ...

  5. PDF Strategic Analysis Of Starbucks Corporation

    Refreshers, Evolution Fresh, La Boulange and Verismo. Starbucks had total revenue of $14.89 billion as of September 29th, 2013.2 2) External Environment Of The Retail Market For Coffee & Snacks: 2.1) Industry Overview and Analysis: Starbucks primarily operates and competes in the retail coffee and snacks store industry. This industry

  6. Starbucks: Delivering Customer Service

    You will receive access to two case study solutions! The second is not yet visible in the preview. Company Background - Starbucks: Love Coffee, Love People ... How does the Starbucks of 2002 differ from the Starbucks of 1992? Unlock Case Solution Now! Get instant access to this case solution with a simple, one-time payment ($4.90).

  7. Starbucks case study

    Case Study - Starbucks: Delivering Customer Service. How does the Starbucks of 2002 differ from the Starbucks of 1992? Customer Satisfaction: When comparing data for Starbucks of 2002 and 1992, the focus of Starbucks was to satisfy customers' needs; for this reason, customer satisfaction was higher in 1992.

  8. Starbucks: Delivering Customer Service

    Related. The case 'Starbucks: Delivering Customer Service' is accompanied by a Video Short - available only to registered Premium Educators at hbsp.harvard.edu - that can be shown in class or included in a digital coursepack. Instructors should consider the timing of making the video available to students, as it may reveal key case details.

  9. Starbucks: Delivering Customer Service

    Moon, Youngme, and John Quelch. "Starbucks: Delivering Customer Service." Harvard Business School Case 504-016, July 2003. (Revised October 2018 ...

  10. Starbucks Reinvented

    Starbucks Reinvented. by Julia Hanna. Nancy Koehn 's new case on the rebirth of Starbucks under Howard Schultz "distills 20 years of my thinking about the most important lessons of strategy, leadership, and managing in turbulence." Harvard Business School Professor and historian Nancy Koehn has studied Starbucks and its leader, Howard Schultz ...

  11. Case Study: Starbucks Flashcards

    A case study of Starbucks in 2002 - their strategies for delivering customer service and how we could improve it moving forward. Share. Get better grades with Learn. 82% of students achieve top marks after using Learn. Study using Learn. Students also viewed. Sociology 1100 Exam Review (Chapter 5) 91 terms. kmistr03. Preview.

  12. Howard Schultz and Starbucks Coffee Company

    Abstract. Investigates the entrepreneur's strategic initiatives to develop a mass market for specialty coffee in the 1980s and 1990s. These initiatives included the development of premium products, rapid expansion of company-owned stores--each with attractive retail environments and responsive customer service--and, especially, the creation of ...

  13. Case Study Of Starbucks: How Starbucks Became The Coffee King?

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    The case explores the opportunities and challenges confronting Starbucks in the early 21st century. For more than 15 years, Starbucks has grown swiftly and successfully, helping create a large, dynamic market for specialty coffee, building one of the world's most powerful brands, and forging a new business model based on industry disrepair and responsible global citizenship. In 2008, Starbucks ...

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  20. MKT350 Starbucks Case Study Question-2

    However, the prominent difference between the Starbucks of 1992 and therefore the Starbucks of 2002 is that the customer satisfaction. The latest service innovation in 2002 was Starbuck's T-Mobile Hotspot wireless internet service which was introduced in August. The Starbucks of 2002 is surely very different from the Starbucks of 1992.

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