Starbucks launches Green Dot Assist: Generative AI virtual assistant to support baristas in real time

NORTH AMERICA – Starbucks has introduced Green Dot Assist, a generative AI-powered virtual assistant designed to provide real-time support for baristas, marking a major step forward in the coffee giant’s use of technology to streamline store operations and enhance the partner experience.

The solution is currently being piloted in 35 Starbucks locations across the United States, with a broader rollout planned for fiscal year 2026 throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Green Dot Assist is accessible to Starbucks partners, baristas, and managers, via in-store iPads, where they can ask questions either verbally or by typing.

The AI assistant delivers instant, conversational replies, allowing staff to quickly access the information they need during their shifts without having to search through manuals or internal networks.

This immediate access to guidance is designed to help partners work more efficiently and confidently, ultimately improving speed of service and customer satisfaction.

The virtual assistant offers a range of support functions tailored to the demands of the hospitality and food service sector.

Baristas can use Green Dot Assist to look up drink ingredients, review recipes, and receive step-by-step instructions for crafting beverages—including seasonal or customized drinks.

The tool also provides troubleshooting advice for equipment issues and can guide staff through the process of creating help tickets for repairs if needed.

For managers, Green Dot Assist can assist with staffing challenges by reviewing schedules, identifying available employees, and facilitating shift coverage in the event of last-minute callouts.

The technology, built on OpenAI and hosted on Microsoft Azure, is part of Starbucks’ broader “Back to Starbucks” strategy, which focuses on reducing friction in store operations, improving workflow, and giving employees more time to connect with customers and deliver exceptional service.

Starbucks’ leadership has highlighted that innovations like Green Dot Assist are intended to make jobs easier and more enjoyable for partners, reinforcing the company’s commitment to investing in its workforce.

As Starbucks continues to pilot and refine Green Dot Assist, the company envisions expanding the assistant’s capabilities in future updates.

Potential enhancements include automated IT ticketing for equipment problems and intelligent recommendations for substitute staff when scheduling gaps arise.

This initiative reflects a growing trend in the hospitality industry, where generative AI is being leveraged to empower frontline employees, streamline operations, and elevate the overall guest experience.

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