Was it just a couple of kids with a lucky break, or was it business genius?

Many have heard the name, "Starbucks", many have visited stores with Starbucks in them, driven past Starbucks on the local corner, and many have even ventured in to have a look around and try some of the famous coffee. No matter which of these you are, it is plain to see that Starbucks has had a successful run this far. Starbucks started with one shop in 1971 and has since then increased to over 13,000 stores nationwide. They have their own coffee farmers and harvesters, their own roasters, and carefully followed recipies that are just their own, including the Frapaccino. But that isn't all, they offer a wide variety of products including mugs, t-shirts, candies, and have now even delved into their own coffee liqueurs and their own music.

So, how has it all been done?

The primary key to Starbucks' success is and has always been "people". They have set up a business model that is all about people world wide. With that they have some of the best payment plans and benefits packages available to all of their farmers (something that many of these people have gone without for generations), they have great payment plans and benefits packages for their local employees including fantastic benefits for their part time employees (something that doesn't happen very often), and with this idea of people they have worked hard to please those that work hard to please their customers.

Customer service has always been a high priority with Starbucks. It is why a manager or assistant manager at a Starbucks receives at least 80 hours of training and a barista receives 40 hours of training before they are allowed to make drinks without supervision. Is this over kill? or is this what teaches them to be great at their job and to work hard at pleasing the customer? Most would say the later. A confident barista is cheerful, capable, and works to make that perfect cup of whatever you wish.

This attitude of people first coupled with a great product has made Starbucks the success that it has become. Starbucks has worked hard to increase it's line of products and all that it offers. It has done so to please it's growing number of faithful customers. For where there are those who are loyal, there is a company that is working hard to please them.

It's all about the people!

This knowledge was acquired as part of 40 hours of Starbucks barista training.

Learn more about this author, Danelle Karth.
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