“`html
Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images
- Brian Niccol, formerly of Chipotle, will assume the role of CEO at Starbucks, succeeding Laxman Narasimhan.
- Starbucks faces challenges that need addressing.
- As a former barista, I have suggestions for the new leadership.
The recent turnover in Starbucks’ leadership comes after a tumultuous nine months under its previous CEO— and as someone who has served behind the counter, I understand why!
I began my journey as a barista back in 1999. In light of this experience, I echo sentiments expressed by Howard Schultz regarding today’s challenges facing Starbucks. His perspective resonates with me; it appears the brand has strayed from its foundational principles.
Lately, I’ve been left perplexed by Starbucks’ menu choices. Novel drinks seem to sprout up frequently—many unfamiliar to me—which makes it difficult to anticipate how they’ll be presented. While I’m always ready to explore exciting flavors and beverages alike, navigating the current offerings can feel overwhelming.
Suggestions for Brian Niccol’s New Leadership at Starbucks
- Add More Lavender Powder: This springtime seasonal favorite became such an instant hit that stores often ran out of stock. The previous CEO likened its popularity to that of pumpkin spice lattes—a beloved classic. Clearly, there’s demand for this flavor!
- Revive the Astor Place Location: Reopening the recently closed Astor Place store in New York City is crucial. Having served local communities since 1995 near NYU and Cooper Union, it’s a beloved landmark—an unofficial flagship store on this side of Seattle! Locals miss having access to their go-to bathrooms!
- Simplify Wild Drink Ordering: The rise of TikTok has inspired many innovative drink concoctions shared with elaborate “recipes” featuring various syrups and toppings over typical iced lattes or other bases. These are undoubtedly fun but managing such complex requests through the app can be daunting! Imagine if there were a rotating feature highlighting ‘whimsical drinks’ within the app alongside an easier way streamlining these popular TikTok mash-ups directly into online orders utilizing AI technology!
- Caffeine Transparency in Non-Coffee Beverages: Clearer labeling on non-coffee refreshments regarding their caffeine content would help prevent mishaps where customers mistakenly order caffeinated options intended for children such as fruity refreshers! A greater variety of decaf selections is also needed.
- Aiding Long-Time Customers Discover New Offerings: For many longtime patrons like myself who often opt only for basic hot or iced coffee out of confusion over newer choices—we could use guidance! For example: more enticing visuals depicting creative drinks offered could simplify decision-making when trying something fresh like blended lemonade.
- Ditch Boba Pearls:Boba drinks are enjoyable but better suited at dedicated tea shops rather than coffeehouses traditionally known for espresso-based beverages.
- Brought Back Favorite Treats from Yesteryears:The espresso brownie holds nostalgic value; considering how many times I indulged back then (over 500!), reintroducing them would surely delight past fans too!
I do not anticipate all these recommendations will necessarily translate into soaring stock prices
forStarbucks, but remember: success isn’t solely measured through financials—sometimes customer satisfaction speaks volumes!
Read more insights on Business Insider
