How Starbucks Embraces AI for Smarter Inventory Counts

Starbucks has announced it will be deploying NomadGo's patented Inventory AI in more than 11,000 North American locations. 

This product delivers 8x faster inventory counting, with 99% accuracy, improving in-store efficiency and supply chain visibility. 

Through the overlaying of real-time data using augmented reality, NomadGo offers instant validation, meaning the employee doesn't need to wait around for the data to process and can immediately order new stock or change purchasing orders.

A technological hand

NomadGo is leading in the Inventory AI industry, committed to reducing manual and incorrect inventory counts.

Its Inventory AI is powered by Spatial Vision, a new technology from NomadGo.

This fusion of on-device 3D spatial intelligence, computer vision and augmented technology senses, understands and extracts real-time data from physical spaces, transforming inventory management.

Using just a phone or tablet, businesses can conduct fast and accurate inventory counts automatically.

Starbucks, the global coffeehouse chain, utilises this technology to boost operational efficiency in North America.

The company hosts millions of customers globally every week, demanding a smoothly running operation to satisfy their need for caffeine.

“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.” 

Building supply chain efficiency

Traditional inventory management involves manual processes that typically achieve only 80-85% accuracy and require significant labour.

Manual data sorting and human errors render this system inefficient, consuming valuable time and resources that are better allocated elsewhere.

Now, with NomadGo's Inventory AI, businesses achieve instant, precise results, allowing employees to redirect their efforts.

With Spatial Vision technology, workers complete a full-shelf scan in just 30 seconds instead of counting individual items.

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.”

The system, operational with shelves, refrigerators, thaw racks and display cases, requires only a smartphone or tablet.

NomadGo's Inventory AI quickly identifies items, freeing employees in fast-paced environments like Starbucks to concentrate on other areas.

“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.” 

Meeting customer demand

For Starbucks, NomadGo's ability to recognise milk jugs and coffee bags enhances efficiency through time savings and improved accuracy.

This translates to more precise purchasing orders, preventing overspending or stock shortages.

By minimising the risk of running out of products, Starbucks sustains customer satisfaction and upholds its reputation as a dependable coffeehouse.

Store operations benefit from near-perfect visibility provided by Inventory AI, increasing product availability and reducing costs.

This technology also assists Starbucks in cutting waste. Accurate purchasing and stock assessment lowers the risk of overstocking products that may expire, thus reducing food and drink waste. Ensuring stores have the correct product quantities contributes to forming reliable and sustainable chains.

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."

Every Starbucks owned and operated coffeehouse in North America will integrate Inventory AI by the end of September 2025.

This integration allows Starbucks employees to focus on other activities and engage with customers, thereby enhancing supply chain visibility and operational efficiency nationwide and ensuring continued customer satisfaction.