ChatGPT sample prompts using the Starbucks beta app
Source: Starbucks
starbucks The company announced Wednesday that it has launched a beta app for ChatGPT to provide customers with drink ordering inspiration.
To use the beta app, customers must enable the Starbucks app through ChatGPT’s app directory and enter a prompt containing “@Starbucks” into the chatbot. Consumers must complete their orders on the Starbucks app or website, although they can also customize their orders and choose where they order from. This is an important distinction for companies that rely heavily on loyalty programs.
“One thing has become clear over the past year: Customers don’t necessarily start with the menu,” Paul Riedel, Starbucks’ senior vice president of digital and loyalty, said in a statement. “They start with emotion… We wanted to meet our customers in the moment of inspiration and make it easier than ever to find the drink that’s right for them.”
Wednesday’s announcement marks the latest way Starbucks is trying to find ways to lure U.S. customers back to its cafes. Under its “Back to Starbucks” turnaround strategy, the company has added seating to its cafes, reduced its menu and reintroduced tiers to its loyalty program.
It also helped customers discover new drinks on the mobile app through trending beverage categories and a hidden menu under the Offers tab. Drink discovery is also key to reaching Gen Z consumers. Gen Z shows a greater affinity for unique drinks from U.S. restaurant chains than older generations.
For now, Starbucks’ turnaround strategy appears to be taking hold. After two years of declining traffic, the chain finally reported an increase in customer transactions in its fiscal first quarter, which ended Dec. 28.
Wednesday’s announcement is not Starbucks’ first foray into using generative artificial intelligence or partnering with OpenAI. Last year, the coffee company announced Green Dot Assist, an AI assistant for baristas built on Microsoft Azure’s OpenAI platform.
Other consumer companies are also partnering with OpenAI to boost sales. Walmart, Etsy, and Booking.com are some of the major companies testing shopping and purchasing through ChatGPT’s interface.
