Starbucks to open first Signing Store in the US. Credit: Starbucks Corporation.

Global coffeehouse chain Starbucks will debut its first US Signing Store concept in Washington, D.C. later this year.

The design of the US store is based on the company’s first Signing Store that opened in Malaysia two years ago. Starbucks collaborated with a team of Deaf Starbucks partners and allies to open this store.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

An internal team comprised of Starbucks’ deaf leadership, accessibility office and Access Alliance will support in opening the store as well as assist in training staff by raising awareness and understanding of the deaf experience in the workplace.

The new Signing Store is expected to create around 20 to 25 jobs for the deaf and hard of hearing community in the US. The coffee chain is also planning to hire people who are proficient in American Sign Language (ASL).

“This store is truly from partners, for partners, and we couldn’t have gotten here without the team of Deaf partners and allies.”

Starbucks US retail executive vice-president Rossann Williams said: “This is a historic moment in Starbucks’ ongoing journey to connect with the Deaf and hard of hearing community, hire and engage Deaf and hard of hearing partners, and continue to find ways to be more inclusive, accessible and welcoming to all.

“This store is truly from partners, for partners, and we couldn’t have gotten here without the team of Deaf partners and allies from our accessibility office and the Access Alliance partner network who came together to bring this vision to life. I look forward to the team welcoming the community to this store in October.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Created and sponsored by the Deaf Leadership of the Starbucks Access Alliance, the store features a range of enhancements such as ASL aprons for deaf baristas, ‘I Sign’ pins provided to employees, an open environment for communication and low glare reflective surfaces.

In addition, the company will offer communication options for ordering and receiving beverages at the hand-off counter.