Starbucks Adopts AI Inventory Tool Amid Stock Decline
Starbucks shares fell nearly 3% on Tuesday despite unveiling an AI-powered inventory system that accelerates stock counting by 8x. The coffee chain's new tablet-based tool leverages augmented reality and computer vision to complete hourly inventory checks in under 15 minutes.
The technology addresses chronic stockouts plaguing locations, particularly under the Back to Starbucks operational plan. While the innovation promises supply chain efficiency, markets reacted negatively as investors weigh AI's disruptive potential across retail workforces.