On September 22 Starbucks officially rolled out a new feature for their app that allows customers to order and pay before arriving in store.
Order Ahead, is now available in more than 7,400 stores nationwide. According to Starbucks officials, the program is available for all iOS and Android devices.
The company tested the feature during a trial run in Dec. 2014 in Portland, Ore. It then expanded to the Pacific Northwest in March 2015.
Local customers have been able to take advantage of the Order Ahead program, Ruslet Baronvil, a recent graduate of the FAMU/FSU School of Engineering, said that he would definitely visit the store more frequently.
“I hate waiting in line, it’s annoying,” Baronvil said. “Now you’re telling me I can order and pay for my stuff online and pick it up? I’ll be there everyday.”
Jose Garcia, shift manager at the Starbucks in Tallahassee, said that although they have not seen any significant changes in customer service, the app has been very helpful for those who use it.
“The orders are printed 10-15 minutes beforehand, then they are made and sat aside and ready for pick up. Customers get a certain amount of time to pick up their order.”
Garcia added that the quick and convenient style of the Order Ahead program has not impacted the cozy coffee shop atmosphere.
“No, not really. College student are still coming here to study and get work done, and maybe they have that troublesome roommate that they don’t want to go home to yet.”
Omega Wynn, District Manager for the Tallahassee and Panama City area, said that while Order Ahead is the primary focus, the company plans to explore other avenues to ensure exceptional customer service.