Starbucks is rolling out a new generative-AI powered solution to help baristas in real time.
The Green Dot Assist program will be piloted in 35 Starbucks coffeehouses. EVP Chief Technology Officer Deb Hall Lefevre says the technology marks a new era of innovation within the business.
“Green Dot Assist is a virtual assistant built to help our baristas in real time. Instead of flipping through manuals or searching for answers, partners can now ask questions on in-store iPads and receive instant, conversational responses,” Hall Lefevre says.
“With this new solution, we’re simplifying access to essential information in the flow of work for partners, making their jobs a little easier while they build confidence and expertise. For example, if a barista needs a quick reminder of the ingredients for a seasonal beverage, Green Dot Assist provides guidance in seconds – helping partners feel confident in delivering exceptional customer service.”
Starbucks has also officially named its two new coffee innovation farms in Guatemala and Costa Rica and revealed the new titles at its Leadership Experience 2025 in Las Vegas.
The company’s investment into the pair of sites was initially announced in October 2024, with the aim of building on its global agronomy innovation at Hacienda Alsacia, its first company-operated coffee farm.
The Guatemalan site has been named Valley of Volcanoes, while the Costa Rican site has been named Highlands of Alsacia.
Announcement of the new names has come alongside the news that the business has also reached its funding commitment to provide US$100 million in financing to coffee farmers around the world through its Global Farmer Fund.
According to the Starbucks website, its Global Farmer Fund provides “access to credit at reasonable terms”, which the business lists as “a critical aspect of [its] farmer support model”.
The provision of this total $100 million in financing has met the business’ 2025 goal months ahead of its deadline.
