Starbucks is closing all pickup-only stores, CEO says. See locations.
Niccol, who has been at the helm since September 2024, said the venture was no longer compatible with the Seattle based coffee chain's plan to get "back to Starbucks."
"We found this format to be overly transactional and lacking the warmth and human connection that defines our brand," Niccol said July 29.
Introduced in New York in 2019, "Starbucks Pick Up" was designed to simplify coffee runs. Customers would (and still can) place mobile orders, pick them up and move on with the day.
Approximately 80 to 90 Starbucks "Pick Up" stores across more than 20 states will be impacted, with some locations facing permanent closure while others will be converted into traditional coffeehouses at a later date, according to Niccol and the chain's website.
Starbucks did not respond to comment about the future of specific locations, which were built inside downtown areas, airport terminals and hospitals in cities all over the country.
Despite the shift in strategy, the company is not moving away from mobile ordering, as it accounts for 31% of transactions, Starbucks said in a statement to USA TODAY.
"We have a strong digital offering and believe we can deliver the same level of convenience through our community coffeehouses with a superior Mobile Order and Pay experience," Niccol said.
Here's what to know about the end of Starbucks "Pick Up."
What is 'Starbucks Pick Up?'
Starbucks describes its "Pick Up" locations as stores "exclusively designed for mobile orders and quick pick up without the wait."
When will Starbucks 'Pick Up' locations close?
Niccol said the company was looking to "sunset" the concept of mobile order and pickup-only locations in fiscal 2026.
Starbucks Pick Up locations
Starbucks' website lists "Pick Up" locations across more than 20 states and select airports. See the full list below.
Airport locations
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Georgia
Hawaii
Florida
Illinois
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
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