finance
Starbucks Pilots AI Assistant Green Dot Assist in Select Cafes to Support Baristas
Starbucks is implementing an AI-powered virtual assistant called Green Dot Assist, developed with Microsoft Azure’s OpenAI platform, to assist baristas with tasks such as recipe retrieval and order fulfillment. The technology was first announced in June 2025 and is being piloted at 35 locations before wider rollout this year.
Substrate placeholder — needs reviewAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Starbucks Corp, based in Seattle, has introduced Green Dot Assist, an AI-powered virtual assistant designed to support baristas in cafe operations. The tool aims to retrieve drink recipes, suggest ingredient substitutions when items are unavailable, recommend food pairings to customers, provide troubleshooting for equipment issues, and assist managers in scheduling staff for shifts.
Developed in partnership with Microsoft Azure’s OpenAI platform, the technology was first announced in June 2025.
The pilot program began at company-operated locations, with plans for broader implementation. These changes occur as the company addresses operational challenges, including tariffs and increased staffing. However, profits declined due to higher staffing costs and tariff impacts.
The AI rollout aligns with broader industry trends in restaurant technology adoption. For instance, Yum! Brands has partnered with Nvidia for AI in drive-thru and digital orders at chains like KFC and Taco Bell.
McDonald’s ended its two-year contract with IBM for AI drive-thru ordering and reverted to human operators. Google announced in the current month an agentic AI feature for booking restaurant reservations. The company has not detailed potential challenges in the rollout, though industry examples show varied outcomes with AI adoption.
