Starbucks bets on robots to brew a turnaround in customers

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete February 2, 2026 at 01:11 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Starbucks is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in technology to improve efficiency and reverse sluggish profits. The company has introduced AI robots to brew coffee and manage inventory, aiming to reduce out-of-stock gaps and alleviate staff workload. This effort is part of a broader plan to boost sales growth and address investor concerns about profitability. Starbucks' CEO Brian Niccol has reported the company's first sales increase in two years at established US stores, but its share price slid 5% due to concerns about cost savings. The company aims to find $2 billion in cost savings over three years. With a new menu simplification and reduced corporate roles, Starbucks is attempting to regain customer loyalty after several years of struggling sales.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

BBC 30% Chipotle Mexican Grill 40% Israel-Gaza war 50% United States 70% Brian Niccol ×480% Starbucks ×790%

Keywords

starbucks 100% robots 80% artificial intelligence 70% technology investment 60% cost savings 60% sales increase 60% profitability 50% brian niccol 50% customer experience 40%