Starbucks-owned Seattle's Best Coffee plans to open small footprint drive-thru and walk-up only stores across the US, as part of plan to revive its retail presence and compete with rival Dunkin’ Donuts.
The 600ft² first store is set to open in Seattle's SODO neighborhood on 2990 4th Avenue on 16 November 2012 and the company plans to roll out in more markets beginning in 2013.
The small footprint design and LEAN station layouts with pedestrian- and bike-friendly walk-up window adjacent to the sidewalk allows the baristas to assemble orders efficiently and serve quickly, claims the company.
Seattle's Best Coffee senior vice president and general manager Jim McDermet said: "We have completely overhauled our store concept both inside and out. Our drive-thru store features a new menu of affordable, delicious, car-friendly beverages and food for customers who need a one-stop destination without any compromises, any time of the day."
The company had earlier this year launched a learning lab in the Chicago area and based on customer feedback revamped menu line-up by including new signature food items and value-forward combo meals with equal focus on coffee drinks.
Dessert-inspired coffee drinks such as Birthday Cake Lattes, Caramel Candy Lattes and S'mores Mochas will be served up hot, iced or frozen.
Brewed coffee will be either offered as original or dark blend and free flavored creamers. The menu also features traditional coffeehouse standards like lattes and mochas.
