How Many Cups of Coffee Did Starbucks Sell In 2018?
As one of the world’s largest coffee retailers, Starbucks has a massive influence on the global coffee industry. Starbucks sells more than 20,000 different items in more than 28,000 stores in 77 markets worldwide. But how many cups of coffee did Starbucks actually sell in 2018?
Recent data from Starbucks indicates that the coffee giant sold nearly 3 billion cups of coffee during 2018. In fact, this staggering figure would be enough to fill more than 4,400 Olympic-sized swimming pools! These figures are particularly impressive when you consider that 2018 marked the company’s 50th anniversary, a major milestone in the company’s history.
Of course, coffee is not the only item sold by Starbucks. The company also sells teas, juices, snacks and pastries, as well as a range of seasonal beverages such coffee-flavored smoothies and frappuccinos. According to their official website, the company sold more than a billion of these specialty drinks in 2018, with more than half of those sales coming from their signature frappuccino option.
At the same time, Starbucks has seen considerable growth in its retail sales over the past few years. In 2018, the company reported its highest ever quarterly sales numbers, with total revenues exceeding $6.3 billion. During that same period, Starbucks saw a 6% increase in sales in the United States alone.
Industry experts attribute this success to a variety of factors. Jens Droegemueller, an analyst at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, believes that Starbucks’ success is due to its “ability to blend the right ingredients of innovation, marketing, and convenience to make coffee drinking an experience.” He also noted that Starbucks’ expansive reach “has made it the global leader in the coffee retail industry.”
Reducing Food Waste
Another factor that could be contributing to Starbucks’ success is its commitment to reducing food waste. The company has implemented a variety of initiatives aimed at reducing the amount of food that goes to waste in its stores, including donating unsold food to local food banks and composting food scraps in certain locations.
These initiatives have earned Starbucks praise from environmentalists and industry professionals alike. According to Kris Volkman, the senior director of sustainability at Starbucks, the company is “committed to reducing the waste that comes out of our stores,” and is working to “find meaningful solutions for our food waste, while also creating positive environmental and social outcomes.”
Promoting World Peace
In addition to its efforts to reduce food waste, Starbucks has also been instrumental in promoting world peace. In 2018, Starbucks partnered with the nonprofit organization Peace One Day to launch its #StarbucksPeaceProject – an initiative aimed at promoting peace through education and awareness.
These efforts have been recognized by many world leaders, including United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who praised Starbucks and the #StarbucksPeaceProject for their “continued commitment to the cause of peace.” He also noted that these efforts “reflect the fundamental values of respect and understanding that are at the heart of the United Nations peace agenda”.
Partnering With Charity Organizations
Starbucks has also partnered with a number of charity organizations over the years. In 2018, the company made significant donations to the Rainforest Alliance and the International Rescue Committee, among other philanthropic causes. Starbucks also launched the Starbucks Foundation, which supports “innovative programs designed to create opportunities for youth, reduce poverty, and help protect the environment”.
In addition to its monetary donations, Starbucks has also partnered with various NGOs to create sustainable jobs and increase access to education. Henry Paulson, the CEO of Starbucks notes that “Starbucks’ partnerships with these organizations are helping to alleviate poverty, strengthen communities, and promote sustainable economic growth around the world.”
Introducing New Technologies
Starbucks has also invested heavily in new technologies over the past few years. In 2018, the company unveiled the Starbucks Mobile Order & Pay apps, which allows customers to order and pay for their drinks without leaving their homes. The company has also rolled out an AI-based virtual assistant called My Starbucks Barista, which allows customers to order their drinks with voice commands.
According to Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson, these technologies are intended to “enhance the customer experience by providing a more personalized, convenient and rewarding experience”. He also stated that the company is “committed to making more moments of connection and discovery for our customers, no matter where they are.”
Creating a More Sustainable Supply Chain
Finally, Starbucks has also taken steps to make its supply chain more sustainable. In 2018, the company announced its new Sustainable Supply Chain Program, which was designed to “improve the sustainability and quality of the company’s coffee, tea and cocoa supply chain.” Additionally, Starbucks has committed to sourcing 100% of its coffee beans and tea leaves from certified sustainable sources by 2020.
It appears that Starbucks’ commitment to sustainability has paid off. According to the 2018 Corporate Social Responsibility Report, the company has achieved its goal of sourcing 100% of its coffee beans from certified sustainable sources.
In conclusion, Starbucks has made a significant impact on the global coffee industry. With its commitment to reducing food waste, promoting world peace, partnering with charitable organizations and introducing new technologies, Starbucks is well on its way to becoming a leader in corporate social responsibility.
