Starbucks China and Alibaba recently joined forces to launch an online order and delivery service via Alibaba's smart speaker -- Tmall Genie. Customers can now simply use their voice to request a delivery using Alibaba's on-demand food delivery platform, Ele.me, and should expect their order within 30 minutes. All beverages will be delivered in splash-proof lids while food products will be encased in tamper-proof packaging.
With consumer loyalty always being a top priority for Starbucks, the brand ensured that customers will still be eligible to earn Starbucks Rewards and receive membership updates and benefits on the new platform. The new service also marks the one-year partnership anniversary between Starbucks China and Alibaba and ensures a seamless experience for fans of the coffee chain.
eCommerce Coffee Chain Partnerships
Alibaba and Starbucks China Launch a Digital Delivery Service
Trend Themes
1. Voice-activated Delivery - Partnering with smart speaker technology to enable voice-activated delivery service presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the food and beverage industry.
2. On-demand Food Delivery - The integration of on-demand food delivery platforms provides a disruptive innovation opportunity for businesses to cater to increasing customer demand for convenience and speed.
3. Seamless Loyalty Programs - Incorporating loyalty programs into online delivery services presents a disruptive innovation opportunity to enhance customer retention and brand loyalty.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry can leverage voice-activated delivery services to enhance customer experience and streamline delivery operations.
2. Tech and E-commerce - The integration of smart speakers and on-demand food delivery platforms creates disruptive innovation opportunities within the tech and e-commerce industry.
3. Customer Loyalty - Seamless integration of loyalty programs in online delivery services provides disruptive innovation opportunities for businesses looking to strengthen customer loyalty.