Starbucks has recently unveiled a new store design that focuses on accessibility and inclusion, aiming to create a welcoming environment for all customers. The first location with this new design was opened in Washington, D.C.’s Union Market.
The coffee giant spent two years designing the store to ensure that it provides an unobstructed path for customers, making it easier for everyone to navigate. One notable feature is the power-operated doors, which allow customers to enter the cafe with less effort. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility challenges or those carrying heavy items.
Once inside, customers can place their orders using a new point-of-sale system that has been designed with accessibility in mind. The adjustable angle stand, voice assist, screen magnification, and photos of menu items all contribute to a more inclusive experience. This is especially helpful for individuals who may not speak English as their first language, as the visual cues aid in ensuring accurate orders and excellent service.
In addition to the ordering process, Starbucks has made changes to the counters to make them more accessible for wheelchair users and individuals with disabilities. By lowering the height of the counters, Starbucks ensures that everyone can comfortably engage with the baristas and enjoy their coffee experience.
Behind the counter, Starbucks has introduced a new brewing system called Clover Vertica. This system has been designed with accessibility in mind, featuring large dials and protruding buttons. The tactile feedback allows users to adjust settings by touch or using light indicators, making it easier for all customers to brew their desired coffee.
Starbucks has also made significant changes in terms of store lighting and insulation. The lighting has been adjusted to minimize glare, shadows, and backlighting that can make it difficult for some individuals to see. By creating a softer lighting environment, Starbucks ensures that all customers can have a pleasant experience. Additionally, insulation improvements have been made to reduce noise levels within the store, creating a more comfortable atmosphere.
The floor plan of the store has also been carefully designed to be free of obstacles and to have open sightlines. This creates a spacious and inviting environment for customers, allowing them to move freely without any obstructions. Starbucks plans to implement this framework in all future company-owned locations, ensuring that accessibility and inclusivity become standard across their stores.
Despite the extensive changes made to enhance accessibility, Starbucks assures that building more accessible stores will not be significantly more expensive than using current designs. Sara Trilling, President of Starbucks North America, believes that these improvements will not only benefit customers but also contribute to better employee engagement and customer connection.
Overall, Starbucks’ commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is evident through their newly designed store in Union Market. By addressing various aspects such as path navigation, ordering systems, counter heights, brewing equipment, lighting, noise levels, and floor plan layout, Starbucks aims to create an environment where everyone feels welcome. With plans to open over 600 new stores this year, Starbucks is making significant strides in increasing its accessibility footprint and setting a positive example for other businesses to follow.
