Professional Documents
Culture Documents
The methodology used for research is qualitative data as we analysed the available
non-numerical data and secondary data. The content available online was
thoroughly studied and analysed in order to cover the relevant topics existing data is
summarized and analysed accordingly.
Introduction
Starbucks lost its focus in the mid-2000s due to rapid expansion and a shift
away from its core values. In an effort to increase profits, Starbucks began
opening new stores at a breakneck pace, leading to oversaturation in many
markets. This expansion also led to a decline in the quality of Starbucks'
products and services, as the company struggled to maintain consistency across
all of its locations. Additionally, Starbucks began to prioritize growth over its
core values of quality, community, and sustainability, which resulted in a loss of
customer loyalty and a decline in sales. Starbucks' shift away from its core
values also made it vulnerable to competition from smaller, independent coffee
shops that offered more authentic and personalized experiences. Overall,
Starbucks lost its focus by prioritizing growth and expansion over its core
values, which led to a decline in customer loyalty and sales.
Target Market
Starbucks first catered to coffee enthusiasts and experts when it first started in
1971. Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker, the company's founders,
first positioned Starbucks as a supplier of premium whole-bean coffee and
coffee making supplies.
Starbucks widened its target audience throughout time to include a wider range
of people, such as professionals, students, and people searching for a place to
socialise. The company's target market increased to include a larger range of
coffee customers as it developed and introduced new products and store styles.
Current target Market
Coffee users who like drip coffee, those who enjoy speciality coffee, and those
who purchase whole beans are all part of the target market. In terms of
demographics, Starbucks concentrates on men and women, professionals, and
students. They target folks between the ages of 22 and 60 because professionals
and employees can be found in the older age group. Its targeting strategy also
focuses on single persons, older married couples with kids, and the youngest
kids under and over the age of six.
Thus, the target market of starbucks has changed keeping in mind the changes
in the trends and because of new demands and objectives.
Starbucks is a global chain of coffee shops which serves a broad target market
that includes a range of demographic groups. The geographical and cultural
environment also effects and impacts To be more precise the following are
some prioritized target groups:
Starbucks typically appeals to people who are passionate about coffee and value
the craft of speciality coffee drinks. These customers like the premium flavours
and variety that Starbucks offers, as well as the chance to experiment with
various mixes and brewing techniques.
Starbucks attracts urban professionals who are looking for an accessible and
comfortable setting to work, study, or hold meetings, including office workers,
students, and entrepreneurs. Thus, they chose this location to work and to have a
sip of good coffee as well. Moreover, the company's locations frequently offer
free Wi-Fi, lots of seating, and a laid-back ambiance that appeals to this market.
Starbucks has been able to effectively position itself as a hip and socially
responsible brand which is appealing to both the millennials and the Generation
Z. Customers in the Millennial and Gen Z generations are drawn to Starbucks
because of its cutting-edge food options, contemporary store designs, and
dedication to sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Furthermore, the customers who are concerned about their health, for instance ,
those who have an interest in health and wellness continues to rise, Starbucks
has responded by providing a variety of healthier food and drink alternatives.
The business caters to consumers who are concerned about their health and are
looking for products like low-fat drinks, plant-based milk substitutes, and
wholesome food options.
Customers with higher disposable incomes are drawn to Starbucks by its
premium pricing approach, which frames it as a more luxury coffee shop brand.
These wealthy clients are frequently prepared to spend more for the Starbucks
experience, which includes its atmosphere, high-quality service, and premium
coffee selections.
In addition, Starbucks also serves to those who are on the go and need a fast fix
of coffee. It targets those customers that are continuously on the go and can be
accommodated through drive-thrus, mobile ordering using the Starbucks app,
and grab-and-go menu items
Starbucks has a sizable following abroad and customises its marketing tactics to
fit various customs and tastes. It caters to a wide range of consumers around the
world, localising its offerings while upholding its key principles and brand
identity.
There have been a number of noticeable changes in Starbucks' target market
over the years, with the latest change that came in September 2021. Moreover,
it's important to understand that the market dynamics can change quickly, and
thus particular developments take place along the way. These are some ways in
which Starbucks repositioned themselves.
This can be seen as when Starbucks took certain steps in order to rebrand and
reposition itself as a destination for tea enthusiasts .Although for being known
mostly for its coffee, Starbucks bought Teavana, a vendor of speciality teas, in
2012, and started adding tea-related items to its menu. Hence, Starbucks was
able to use its existing brand recognition and store network to acquire a wider
client base interested in tea as a result of this move.
Starbucks has placed a strong emphasis on the digital experience as it
understands the growing significance of technology and digital platforms in the
retail sector. For the purpose of improving customer satisfaction and luring
tech-savvy customers, the firm has made investments in mobile ordering,
payment methods, and has introduced Starbucks Rewards programmes .
Starbucks is rebranding itself as a digitally-driven brand in an effort to better
serve the interests and habits of a clientele that is becoming more and more
connected.
Besides, introducing new flavors, Starbucks is now placing more of an
emphasis on providing healthier menu options to it’s consumers.In order to
attract clients who are health-conscious, the company has launched products
including low-calorie beverages, gluten-free snacks, and plant-based substitutes.
This repositioning fit with the growing demand for wholesome and
environmentally friendly foods and drinks.
Starbucks has worked to tailor its products to the local preferences and tastes of
different markets throughout the world. For instance, in order to attract
customers in China, Starbucks added and included traditional tea beverages and
food items into its menu. Moreover, Starbucks is able to reinvent itself as a
company that respects and takes into account the cultural quirks and variations
between various countries .
Starbucks has taken great and various steps in order to rebrand itself as a brand
that cares and takes into account both the environment and social
responsibility. The business has tried to follow challenging environmental
objectives, such as they have tried in lowering its carbon impact and supports
ethical sourcing methods. Nowadays, the customer demand for businesses that
prioritise sustainability and ethical business practises is expanding, and this
repositioning is in line with that demand.
In the past, Starbucks has mostly targeted urban, wealthy, and young adult
customers who enjoy good coffee and a welcoming environment. The business
wanted to establish a "third place" where consumers could unwind, interact with
others, or work while consuming their beverages. This target market sector
frequently included professionals, students, and anyone looking for an
exceptional cup of coffee.
While Starbucks has stayed dedicated to its core clientele, the business has also
launched a number of measures to increase its appeal and meet changing
customer demands. To draw in a wider clientele, these initiatives have included
the addition of additional menu items, such as increased food selections and
alternative beverage alternatives, such as tea, refreshers, and cold brews.
Additionally, Starbucks has made an attempt to cater to customers who are
health-conscious by delivering more nutrient-dense food and beverage options
and being transparent about the sourcing of its ingredients and nutritional data.
Additionally, the business has emphasized its dedication to sustainability and
ethical sourcing, which may appeal to customers who are concerned about the
environment.
Overall, Starbucks has become one of the most successful and recognizable
brands in the world. Its commitment to quality, social responsibility, and
community has helped it to build a loyal following of customers who appreciate
its products and values.
When customers are paying exceptional sums for strong brands, brand
recognition is a crucial aspect in the expansion of enterprises. A corporation can
engage with its customers through marketing, which aims to influence the
customers' consumption patterns. The most recent developments in marketing
and technology offer value and ensure consistent income generation for the
specific business. The goal of marketing communication is to increase demand
for the products and services. Chief marketing officers and brand managers are
employed by businesses to do the standard marketing tasks for the businesses.
The businesses devote sufficient marketing funds to building a strong consumer
base and managing their brands
Marketing plan and objectives include many components and strategies. And
starbucks focuses on certain components of the marketing mix such as, prices,
goods, promotions, methods, locations, and physical surroundings. The main
goals of the marketing mix is to create communication and offer clients value.
Starbucks uses a variety of marketing techniques, including social media
marketing, marketing communications, and customer relationship management.
The goal of Starbucks is to provide their low-income consumers with a
memorable customer experience so that they may develop a lasting relationship
with them that is one of their major goal to accomplish.
Starbucks seeks to establish HR procedures that will please the staff so that they
may act as brand ambassadors and manage efficient customer connections.
Starbuck's aims to have 40 000 stores worldwide after they reach their current
number of up to 13, 000 locations. Starbucks understands that in order to
achieve this goal, there must be a number of modifications; otherwise, it will
quickly go away.
Starbucks aims to improve its brand's global recognition and visibility.
Thus,the business is committed in building strong brand connotations with
sustainability, quality, and a satisfying customer experience.
For instance ,as a part of a larger shift towards a circular economy, Starbucks
aims to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. It also plans to reduce waste
from manufacturing and stores by 50% and conserve or replenish 50% of the
water currently used for direct operations and coffee production.
Starbucks is identified as having several key areas where it can have a
significant impact by 2030, which includes increasing the number of plant-
based and environmentally friendly menu options ,switching from single-use to
reusable packaging, investing in cutting-edge agricultural, water conservation,
and reforestation practises, finding ways to better manage waste (including food
waste) in stores and communities, and creating more environmentally friendly
operations across the board, from manufacturing to supply chains to stores.
Furthermore, Starbucks aims to build a devoted client base by promoting
interaction and return trips. To strengthen consumer interactions, the business
has developed programmes including the Starbucks Rewards programme,
tailored incentives, and social media advertising.
Cards that are a part of the Starbucks Rewards Loyalty Programmes are
provided by Starbucks. Customers appear to have embraced these cards well.
Starbucks tries to anticipate changing consumer trends and preferences. To
accommodate various tastes and preferences, it often produces new beverages,
seasonal offerings, and time-limited promos by launching cups and new
flavours depending upon the season.
Starbucks values its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. To
appeal to socially concerned customers, the company works to lessen its
environmental effect, advance ethical sourcing methods, and take part in
community initiatives.
To increase its market share and provide co-branded products, Starbucks looks
to form strategic alliances and partnerships with other companies. Starbucks is
able to diversify its services and reach out to new client segments through
partnerships with businesses across several industries. One of the best examples
of this strategic partnership is the agreement between Starbucks and Barnes &
Noble. Coffee is brewed by Starbucks and Books are provided by Barnes &
Noble. To the benefit of both businesses, each one does what it does best while
splitting the costs of the facility. Starbucks’Strategic partnerships and
acquisitions with Evolution Fresh, La Boulange, Teavana, Danone, and Green
Mountain Coffee Roasters.
The expansion of Starbucks' digital contacts with customers is one of its top
focuses. In order to do this, it is putting new strategies into place to draw
digitally enrolled clients aside from the rewards programme. For instance, the
coffee company uses Wi-Fi sign-ins at its physical outlets and provides mobile
order services.
On social media, Starbucks is widely recognised. The business's numerous
social media pages are well-known for their distinctive branding, engaging
updates, and attractive content. There is a wide variety of content, such as
features, photos, articles, and recipes. There is, however, more than meets the
eye. The content stream can be divided into a number of initiatives intended to
build community and brand awareness.
Market segmentation
Table:
The unique selling point of Starbucks in the early years was its premium coffee
and unique coffeehouse experience. Starbucks positioned itself as a premium
coffee brand that offered high-quality coffee beans and a unique coffeehouse
experience that customers could not find anywhere else. They offered a wide
variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. Starbucks also emphasized
the quality of its coffee beans, which were sourced from around the world and
roasted in small batches to ensure freshness and flavor. This unique selling
point helped Starbucks differentiate itself from competitors and create a strong
brand identity that resonated with customers. They sourced their coffee beans
from around the world and roasted them in small batches to ensure freshness
and flavor. The company emphasized the quality of its coffee beans, which were
carefully selected and roasted to bring out their unique flavors and aromas.
Starbucks also created a unique coffeehouse experience that customers could
not find anywhere else. Apart from this The cozy environment was a key part of
Starbucks' unique selling point in the early years. Starbucks stores were
designed to be warm, inviting, and comfortable, with comfortable seating, free
Wi-Fi, and a relaxed atmosphere. This created a unique coffeehouse experience
that customers could not find anywhere else. Starbucks stores were a place
where customers could relax, socialize, and enjoy their coffee in a cozy and
welcoming environment. This emphasis on creating a cozy environment was a
key part of Starbucks' unique selling point in the early years, and helped the
company differentiate itself from competitors and create a strong brand identity
that resonated with customers.
Starbucks' unique selling point after repositioning is its focus on innovation and
sustainability. Starbucks has expanded its menu to include a wider variety of
coffee drinks, teas, and food items, and has introduced new products such as
cold brew coffee and Nitro cold brew. They have also introduced new
technology such as mobile ordering and delivery, and have focused on
sustainability by using ethically sourced coffee beans, reducing waste, and
investing in renewable energy. Starbucks has also focused on creating a unique
coffeehouse experience that goes beyond just coffee, by offering a welcoming
environment, free Wi-Fi, and a range of food and beverage options. This unique
selling point has helped Starbucks differentiate itself from competitors and
create a strong brand identity that resonates with customers.
Starbucks has undergone two significant positioning changes over the years. In
the early years, Starbucks positioned itself as a premium coffee brand that
offered a unique coffeehouse experience that customers could not find
anywhere else. They emphasized the quality of their coffee beans, which were
carefully selected and roasted to bring out their unique flavors and aromas. This
unique selling point helped Starbucks differentiate itself from competitors and
create a strong brand identity that resonated with customers.
In recent years, Starbucks has repositioned itself as an innovative and
sustainable coffee brand. Starbucks has expanded its menu to include a wider
variety of coffee drinks, teas, and food items, and has introduced new products
such as cold brew coffee and Nitro cold brew. They have also introduced new
technology such as mobile ordering and delivery, and have focused on
sustainability by using ethically sourced coffee beans, reducing waste, and
investing in renewable energy. Starbucks has also focused on creating a unique
coffeehouse experience that goes beyond just coffee, by offering a welcoming
environment, free Wi-Fi, and a range of food and beverage options.
Compared to its early years, Starbucks' new positioning has allowed the
company to appeal to a wider range of customers and differentiate itself from
competitors. Starbucks has been able to adapt to changing consumer preferences
and trends, while maintaining its core values and unique selling points.
Starbucks has also been able to create a positive impact on the environment and
society, which has helped to build a stronger brand identity.
Overall, Starbucks' positioning and repositioning have been successful in
creating a unique brand identity and differentiating itself from competitors.
Starbucks has been able to adapt to changing consumer preferences and trends,
while maintaining its core values and unique selling points. This has helped
Starbucks maintain its position as a leading coffee brand and continue to grow
and expand its business.
SWOT Analysis:
SMART objectives:
Product
Products are commodities and services that solve problems and satisfy the needs
of consumers. A product can be tangible, such as a vehicle or a piece of
clothing, or intangible, such as a cruise or house cleaning service. A successful
product either fills a void in the marketplace or offers a unique experience that
spikes demand.
Price
Price is the cost of the product that the consumer pays. During product
marketing, it is important to set a price that reflects the current market trends
and is affordable for consumers, yet at the same time is profitable for the
business. Price can fluctuate based on the supply and demand and the product's
sales cycle. While some businesses might lower the price to compete with the
market, others might inflate it -- especially if they are promoting a luxury brand.
Place
This is where and how the product or service is purchased by the customers. It
also entails where the product is stored and manufactured. Digital
transformation has evolved how products are sold -- online, small local shops or
global producers. This marketing plan also considers where the product is
advertised and in which format, such as magazines, online ads, radio,
infomercials or film product placements.
Promotion
Promotion refers to reaching the target audience with the right message at the
right time. It gets the word out and is an effective way to conduct a sales
promotion and connect with consumers. A promotional strategy aims to show
consumers why they would need a certain product and the reasons for buying it
over other products. The core of marketing communications, product
promotions push out specific and meaningful advertising through popular
channels: word-of-mouth seeding, social networking, Instagram campaigns,
print marketing, television commercials, email marketing campaigns, social
media marketing and more.
How Starbucks lost its focus?
Starbucks lost its focus in the mid-2000s due to rapid expansion and a shift
away from its core values. In an effort to increase profits, Starbucks began
opening new stores at a breakneck pace, leading to oversaturation in many
markets. This expansion also led to a decline in the quality of Starbucks'
products and services, as the company struggled to maintain consistency across
all of its locations. Additionally, Starbucks began to prioritize growth over its
core values of quality, community, and sustainability, which resulted in a loss of
customer loyalty and a decline in sales. Starbucks' shift away from its core
values also made it vulnerable to competition from smaller, independent coffee
shops that offered more authentic and personalized experiences. Overall,
Starbucks lost its focus by prioritizing growth and expansion over its core
values, which led to a decline in customer loyalty and sales.
2. Price: Starbucks continued with its premium pricing strategy, but also
introduced more affordable options to attract a wider customer base.
3. Place: Starbucks continued to expand its global presence, but also started
focusing on smaller, more intimate stores in urban areas to create a more
personalized experience for customers. They have company-owned stores,
licensed stores, and joint ventures.
1. Product: Starbucks' product line is diverse and high-quality, which has helped
them build a strong brand reputation. They also offer seasonal drinks and
limited-time promotions to keep customers interested. However, their product
line can be seen as limited compared to other coffee chains.
2. Price: Starbucks' premium pricing strategy has helped them maintain a high
level of quality and exclusivity. However, it may also deter price-sensitive
customers from choosing Starbucks over other coffee chains.
Overall, Starbucks' 4 P's have helped them build a strong brand reputation and
customer base. However, they may need to adapt their strategies to stay
competitive in the evolving coffee market.
1. Product: Starbucks can expand its product line to include more options for
customers with dietary restrictions. They could also introduce more innovative
and unique drinks to differentiate themselves from competitors. Enhance the
level of customization by allowing customers to personalize their beverages
even further. This could include expanding the range of syrups, toppings, and
milk alternatives, allowing customers to create unique combinationstailored to
their preferences. Introduce more seasonal and regional products to appeal to
local tastes and promote a sense of uniqueness across different markets. This
could involve partnering with local suppliers to showcase regional specialties
and foster community connections.
4. Promotion: Starbucks can improve its digital marketing and social media
strategies to better engage with customers. They could also consider
highlighting their ethical and sustainable sourcing practices more prominently
in their marketing campaigns to appeal to socially conscious customers.
Showcase the unique aspects of Starbucks, such as the coffee bean sourcing
process, barista expertise, and community engagement. Use storytelling to build
an emotional connection with customers and create an authentic brand
experience.
Overall, Starbucks can focus on improving its customer experience and staying
ahead of trends in the coffee industry to remain competitive.
Conclusion
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