Starbucks plans AI customer recognition
The gist
Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol said the chain will test AI to help baristas take orders and recognize customers.
The plans target drive-thru and in-store service, with experiments starting by 2027.
How it unfolded
- Oct 29, 2026On an analyst call, CEO Brian Niccol said Starbucks is preparing to test AI models that run in the background to help baristas input orders more accurately and efficiently.
- Oct 29, 2026Niccol said the coming year will focus on tech and modernization, citing AI for drive-through orders and systems that could recognize participating customers, present personalized digital menus and make payment more effortless.
- Oct 29, 2026Starbucks forecast annual adjusted earnings per share of $3.15 to $3.25, versus analysts' expectation of $3.14, and said it aims to deploy about $1 billion toward share repurchases.