Starbucks and Dunkin’ have implemented a carry-out, drive-through and delivery model at all company-owned stores in the U.S., effective March 15 and 17, respectively.
“As we navigate through the challenges of COVID-19, I want to reiterate our commitment to the health and safety of our guests, franchisees, employees and the communities we serve,” said Dave Hoffmann, Dunkin’ Brands CEO. “We are continuing our legacy of being there when people need us most by taking additional steps to be a safe and welcoming environment during all of this uncertainty. We are grateful for the dedication of our franchisees and crew, who make our brand stand tall every day.”
With the majority of transactions at Dunkin’ U.S. restaurants already carry-out orders, the company announced that franchisees will take the following steps to ensure the safety of restaurant employees and customers:
- Immediately remove tables and chairs from all restaurants and outdoor patios to prevent the congregation of customers
- Encourage mobile ordering through the Dunkin’ app to limit person-to-person contact and to move guests through the restaurants as quickly as possible
- Promote delivery service via Grubhub and other delivery partners where available
- Expand curbside service through the Dunkin’ app at select restaurants
- Reduce hours of operations to provide relief to restaurant employees and to allow extra time for deep cleaning and sanitation processes in the evening
- Franchisees are also being given the option to temporarily close some locations in markets where there are other Dunkin’ restaurants nearby
Similarly, at Starbucks, customers can still walk in and order at store counters, place orders through the company’s app and order via drive thru or delivery. Some stores may also feature modified order-ahead handoff areas through the app.
Starbucks also said it will also temporarily close or reduce operating hours in communities with high numbers of COVID-19 cases.
“As we all know, the situation with COVID-19 is extremely dynamic, and we will continue to review the facts and science and make the proactive decisions necessary to protect our partners (employees), customers and communities,” said Rossann Williams, executive VP and president, U.S. company-operated business and Canada. “Every community’s needs are incredibly different. We want to make sure we play a constructive role by taking responsible actions, in partnership with the CDC and local public health authorities, so we can continue to do what’s right for our partners and customers.”
Starbucks’ announcement builds on a foundation set by Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson last week in a letter sharing how the company has been preparing to respond quickly to COVID-19 emerging situations.