Starbucks switched providers in the U.S. from AT&T to Google

Starbucks made a strategic decision to switch its telecommunications provider in the U.S. from AT&T to Google. This transition was part of a broader effort to enhance its digital infrastructure and improve customer experience. By partnering with Google, Starbucks aimed to leverage advanced technology and cloud services to support its growing mobile payment system and digital initiatives. The move came at a time when mobile transactions were becoming increasingly popular among customers, with a notable percentage of in-store purchases being made through the Starbucks app. This shift not only aimed to streamline operations but also to integrate more effectively with the evolving digital landscape, which included promotions like 'Tweet-a-Coffee' that encouraged social media engagement and mobile transactions. The collaboration with Google was expected to provide Starbucks with improved connectivity and data analytics capabilities, essential for optimizing customer interactions and operational efficiency.