Starbucks Makes It Easier for Stores To Pause Mobile Ordering

Are you tired of waiting for your favorite caffeinated beverage at Starbucks? Mobile ordering could be to blame.

Bloomberg reported that in January, the coffee chain will roll out changes to an app on its store iPads. According to an internal update, Starbucks will add a new feature to halt mobile orders that can only be accessed by shift supervisors and managers.

There are several reasons supervisors and managers may need to put a halt on mobile orders. For instance, there may be a rush within a store, making it hard for baristas to keep up. Also, if a particular store is short-staffed, it will allow those in charge to try to manage the workflow more efficiently.

Subsequently, when a particular store turns off mobile orders, customers on the app are informed that the option isn’t available for that location. This option is essential to Starbucks’ overall experience. Around 27% of U.S. sales in Starbucks’ most recent quarter were devoted to mobile orders.

Using the app allows for simple ordering, making it easier for customers to personalize their drinks how they like them. These additions add to Starbucks’ bottom line, as the chain charges extra for add-ons like syrups and cold foams. 

Bloomberg noted that Starbucks baristas are feeling overwhelmed and overextended, especially when their stores face consistent under-staffing and have to deal with the popularity of mobile orders. Starbucks’ union, Workers United, has carried out work stoppages, like the one on Red Cup Day this year, to fight for workplace issues like staffing and scheduling.

Workers United has called on Starbucks to shut off mobile ordering on promotion days in the future. Employees say that orders coming in simultaneously from the app, in-person customers, and drive-thrus have made their jobs increasingly difficult to manage. 

Previously, shift supervisors have been unable to turn off mobile orders. To do so, store managers generally need district managers’ approval first. However, district managers are required to approve the pauses in isolated cases.