Starbucks Deploys AI-Driven Inventory Across 11,000 Stores

Starbucks is transforming its inventory management processes by incorporating NomadGo's Inventory AI across more than 11,000 locations in North America.

This integration promises to revolutionise the way inventory is tracked and managed, achieving 8x faster inventory counting with 99% accuracy.

The result is improved in-store efficiency and enhanced supply chain visibility.

The integration will leverage augmented reality technology, enabling real-time data overlays.

With this technology, employees can validate data on the spot, making it unnecessary to wait for data processing before placing orders or modifying purchase plans.

Inventory management transformation

NomadGo stands out as a leader in Inventory AI, renowned for its efforts to minimise manual discrepancies in inventory.

Its innovative technology, Spatial Vision, combines 3D spatial intelligence, computer vision and augmented reality, providing a groundbreaking solution for inventory management.

Businesses can achieve rapid and precise inventory counts using just a smartphone or tablet.

By adopting this technology, Starbucks aims to enhance its operational efficiency across North America.

By welcoming millions of customers weekly, Starbucks acknowledges the necessity of smooth store operations to maintain customer satisfaction.

“The deployment of NomadGo’s Inventory AI across Starbucks owned and operated coffeehouses in North America is a strong validation of our patented technology,” says David Greschler, CEO, NomadGo.

“Our technology not only streamlines inventory management but also delivers frequent, highly accurate data that prevents out-of-stock situations and lowers cost of goods sold. Businesses can now match supply to demand with unprecedented precision.” 

Enhancing efficiency

Traditional inventory systems often require labour-intensive manual processes and result in only 80-85% accuracy.

These methods not only consume time but also lead to errors, diverting resources away from more strategic tasks.

However, with NomadGo's Inventory AI, businesses can achieve swift and precise results, freeing employees to engage in other value-adding activities.

The inclusion of Spatial Vision technology enables employees to scan entire shelves in just 30 seconds, as opposed to counting each item individually.

David adds: “Our proprietary, patented technology makes the jobs of all our customers easier. From the in-store employee conducting the count, to the CFO seeking savings through a smarter and automated supply chain.”

This technology is versatile, operational across various storage setups such as shelves and refrigerators, and functions seamlessly with a mobile device.

“This technology streamlines a critical but time-intensive task,” as Deb Hall Lefevre, Starbucks Chief Technology Officer.

“With faster, more accurate inventory counts, our partners can spend more time focusing on what matters: crafting high-quality beverages and connecting with customers.” 

Aligning supply with demand

For Starbucks, incorporating NomadGo's AI technology means improved efficiency in recognising product levels, such as milk jugs and coffee bags.

This accuracy leads to more precise purchasing orders, allowing Starbucks to avoid the pitfalls of over-ordering or running out of essential products, thus sustaining customer satisfaction and reliability.

Enhanced inventory visibility ensures improved product availability and cost reduction, aiding in curbing waste.

For a company dealing with perishable items like food and beverages, accurate inventory management reduces spoilage risks, thereby promoting more sustainable operations.

Deb adds: "At Starbucks, technology isn’t about bells and whistles — it’s about creating meaningful efficiencies that preserve and strengthen craft and connection.

"With automated counting, we’re delivering both a better experience for partners and a more consistent, delightful experience for every customer who walks through our doors."

By the end of September 2025, all Starbucks-owned and operated outlets across North America are expected to have fully integrated this advanced inventory system.

This adoption is poised to elevate supply chain visibility, optimise operational efficiency, and continually meet customer expectations.