Starbucks Argentina launches drive-through location in Nordelta, Buenos Aires

ARGENTINA – Multinational coffeehouse chain Starbucks has expanded its market presence in the country with the launch of its first drive-thru location in Nordelta in Buenos Aires.

The new Starbucks outlet on Avenida Agustín M García 8554 seeks to blend convenience with a design inspired by the Argentine delta, a forested marshland near Buenos Aires popular with tourists.

The store, designed by architect Victoria Odriozola, incorporates local materials such as jute and walnut wood, reflecting the region’s natural heritage. 

Murals by Argentine artist RoF Varela adorn the store, featuring native species like the white heron, blue tacuarita, and monarch butterflies.

These are complemented by depictions of local flora, including cortaderas (feather plumes), passion flowers, lilies, salvia guaranítica (violet blooms), and solidago (yellow flowers). 

Sustainability is central to the store’s design, which includes electric vehicle charging stations, a bicycle repair area, and solar panels.

Claudia Aburto, Starbucks Director for Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, and Uruguay, expressed enthusiasm for the new location, stating, “We are thrilled to bring the Starbucks drive-through experience to the Nordelta community, enhancing and modernizing our presence in the area.”

“Our design and architecture teams have created a space that highlights local artwork, natural light, and work areas where all our customers are welcome, fostering moments of connection around coffee.” 

Since its 2008 debut in Argentina, Starbucks has expanded to 133 stores, employing over 2,000 people nationwide.

The Nordelta store alone has created 21 new jobs. Operating hours for the drive-through are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, extending to 11 p.m. on Fridays and weekends. Weekend hours are 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

Meanwhile, Starbucks has announced significant changes in its global strategy. New CEO Brian Niccol, appointed in October 2024, suspended the company’s fiscal year 2025 forecast to address ongoing challenges.

Preliminary results for the fiscal fourth quarter (Q4) and the 2024 fiscal year ending September 29 revealed a 3% drop in Q4 consolidated net revenue to US$9.1 billion, though annual revenue grew by 1% to US$36.2 billion. 

Earnings per share fell by 25% to $0.80, while global comparable store sales declined by 7% in Q4 and 2% for the full fiscal year, underscoring the need for a refreshed strategy. 

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