Starbucks is expanding its store formats in FY15 with the launch of an interactive, 15,000-square-foot Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room dedicated to roasting, coffee education and increased availability of the company's small-batch Starbucks Reserve coffees.
The company says this consolidation of small-batch roasting will allow it to expand its Starbucks Reserve coffee line to 1,500 locations globally as well as open at least 100 stores designed to highlight these coffees exclusively — such as the unit shown above in Seattle's University Village.
The Roastery and Tasting Room concept is expected to make its debut in Seattle in December and international expansion is expected.
Starbucks also plans to test smaller footprint, express store formats. With drive-thru stores accounting for more than 40 percent of U.S. company-operated stores and higher-than-average sales growth than non-drive-thru locations, the company sees significant opportunity to meet commuting customers in smaller experiences.
In addition to providing a more concentrated beverage and food menu, the express stores will integrate Starbucks' digital payment platform, including mobile ordering to expedite speed of service in these locations.
Starbucks is on track to bring approximately 1,550 net new stores in FY14 and 1,600 net new stores in FY15 with nearly 300 net new company-operated locations in the U.S.