Question #2:
What should be the primary goals of Starbucks’ coffee bean supply chain if they plan to be a customer focused organization?
The primary goal of Starbucks coffee bean supply chain is to ensure an uninterrupted flow of high quality coffee beans at an optimal cost and of consistent quality. These things can be accomplished by actively seeking better materials and reliable suppliers, working closely with strategic suppliers to improve quality materials and involving supplier and purchasing personnel in the new product design and development efforts.
As per the Starbucks mission statement regarding their coffee “It has always been, and will always be, about quality. We’re passionate about ethically sourcing the finest coffee beans, roasting them with great care, and improving the lives of people who grow them. We care deeply about all of this; our work is never done.”
This being said the coffee bean supply chain must balance cost with social responsibility and the ability to meet their demand and company goals. With the large growth Starbucks has seen multiple sources are needed to meet their demand.
Starbucks prefers to develop long term relationships with its vendors and suppliers rather than simple buy from the lowest cost provider by participating in C.A.F.E. Practices a comprehensive coffee-buying program that ensures coffee quality while promoting social, economic and environmental standards. C.A.F.E. Practices, which were developed in collaboration with Conservation International (CI) more than a decade ago, has impacted more than a million workers employed by thousands of participating farms. Through careful supplier selection, supplier development, open communication and long term relationships Starbucks will be able to meet their demand for high quality coffee beans.
