Starbucks is taking a significant step towards inclusivity and accessibility with the introduction of its Inclusive Spaces Framework, which was unveiled at a new store opening in Washington, DC’s Union Market neighbourhood on February 16. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the Starbucks experience for both employees and customers with disabilities, will be implemented in all new U.S. store locations moving forward.
Developed in collaboration with disability organizations and Starbucks’ own Disability Employee Resource Group (ERG), the features were fine-tuned in the company’s trial lab in Seattle. The enhancements are designed to address a range of needs, including:
- Order Status Boards: To assist employees who may find it challenging to verbally announce when an order is ready.
- Lower Counters: These counters are intended to be more accessible for wheelchair users and individuals of shorter stature, making it easier to access coffee machines and point-of-sale systems.
- Soft Lighting: Implemented to reduce glare and shadows, benefiting people with visual impairments.
- Improved Acoustics: To minimize background noise, aiding employees who use hearing aids or have sensory sensitivities due to neurodivergence.
- Inclusive Equipment: Featuring a new coffee brewer equipped with a larger dial, haptic feedback, and light indicators to accommodate employees with vision or hearing disabilities.
Starbucks’ commitment to inclusivity extends beyond its store design; the company plans to make the Inclusive Spaces Framework publicly available to promote accessibility across the retail sector. Katie Young, Starbucks’ SVP of store operations, emphasized the importance of building and scaling an inclusive store framework to the company’s mission of fostering connection and ensuring access for all.
Emily MacKinnon, director of inclusive design at Starbucks, highlighted the transformative potential of these features during a tour of the Union Market location. By incorporating these design elements, Starbucks aims not only to improve the work environment for its current employees but also to broaden its hiring pool, ensuring that anyone who joins the Starbucks team feels welcomed and supported.
This initiative represents a significant advancement in Starbucks’ ongoing efforts to create a more accessible and inclusive environment for everyone who walks through its doors, reflecting a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within the company and the retail industry at large.
