Starbucks begins roll out of Duracell wireless charging mats in US stores
Starbucks has begun a national rollout of wireless charging mats in its US stores beginning with those in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Stores will be equipped with the Duracell ‘Powermat Spots’, designated areas on tables and counters where customers can place their compatible device and charge wirelessly. Select Starbucks stores in Boston and San Jose already offer the Powermat.
Both companies will expand Powermat to additional major markets in 2015, with a full national rollout in Starbucks company-operated stores and Teavana Fine Teas + Tea Bars planned “over time”. Initial pilots in Europe and Asia are expected within the year.
Adam Brotman, chief digital officer at Starbucks said in a post on the company’s blog: “From WiFi and the in-store Starbucks Digital Network to mobile payment and digital music downloads, we have always tried to anticipate our customers’ needs early in the adoption curve and provide a world-class solution. We are thrilled to offer our customers that next level of convenience with Powermat wireless charging. Rather than hunting around for an available power outlet, they can seamlessly charge their device while enjoying their favourite food or beverage offering right in our stores.”
“We were pleased with the customer response to the pilot tests, and we’re now expanding this offering nationally to provide our customers a quality and reliable experience as they use our stores as their respite, their office away from home or as a gathering place with their friends and family.”
Duracell Powermat is the joint venture between Procter & Gamble's Duracell brand and Powermat Technologies.