STARBUCKS UNIVERSE— After today's annual meeting Starbucks announced it would buy the company that owns and manufactures the Clover coffee system a.k.a. one of the most expensive and highly acclaimed coffee machines in the world. Cutty mentioned earlier that some big announcements would come out of the meeting, including a customer loyalty program and a drop in prices, but we didn't expect something as big as this. Not only does this mean no one else will be able to purchase the $11,000 machine (unless Starbucks decides to sell them), but it also means Starbucks will have to train all of their baristas how to work its complicated settings. But the Clover is just the beginning. They're also rolling out the aforementioned rewards program and (of course) a social networking site. Read the full list ahead:
At the Annual Meeting, Starbucks unveiled the following new initiatives. They are focused on improving the current state of the U.S. business, re-igniting the emotional attachment with customers and making foundational changes for the long term:· Starbucks Press Release [Starbucks]
• A proprietary and revolutionary in-store Clover® brewing system that delivers the best cup of brewed coffee available anywhere;• A complete reinvention of brewed coffee in-store, that will be brought to life by baristas across the U.S., who will scoop and grind a new unique coffee blend, connecting customers to the early days of Starbucks;
• The introduction of a new state-of-the-art espresso system that provides the perfect shot every time and helps facilitate the critical connection between barista and customer;
• The first phase of a Starbucks Card Rewards program, rewarding registered cardholders and providing unique new benefits when using their cards in Starbucks stores;
• The launch of MyStarbucksIdea.com, Starbucks first online community, that takes the Starbucks Experience outside the store and enables customers to play a role in shaping the company’s future; and,
• An expanded relationship with Conservation International that enhances Starbucks 37-year commitment to ethically sourcing the world’s finest coffees and reaffirms Starbucks leadership position in sustainable sourcing and climate preservation.
· Starbucks to Cut Prices, Increase Orders [Cutlets]