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Starbucks Unveils First 3D Printed Store in Texas
Starbucks has brewed up a bold new chapter in its history—this time, not with coffee, but with concrete and code. On May 2, 2025, the coffee giant opened its first-ever 3D printed store in Brownsville, Texas, marking a milestone in both retail and construction innovation.
Nestled on Boca Chica Boulevard, this 1,400-square-foot location is unlike any other Starbucks. The store was constructed using advanced 3D printing technology by PERI 3D Construction, a leader in the field, instead of traditional building methods. The result? A drive-thru and mobile pick-up only store that’s as futuristic as it is functional.
How Was the Starbucks 3D Printed Store Built?
The process behind this groundbreaking store is as fascinating as the coffee it serves. PERI 3D Construction used a COBOD BOD2 printer, which works by layering concrete through a steel nozzle, building the structure from the ground up. This method not only speeds up construction but also reduces the need for extra plastering and post-treatment, making the process more efficient and eco-friendly.
3D printing in construction isn’t entirely new—Texas has already seen neighborhoods of 3D printed homes—but Starbucks is among the first major retailers to embrace this technology for a storefront. The advantages are clear: faster build times, lower costs, and a unique, modern aesthetic that stands out in any city.
Why Brownsville, Texas?
Brownsville, located at the southernmost tip of Texas near the Mexico border, is a city of over 190,000 people. The new 3D printed Starbucks is the fourth in the city, offering residents and visitors a glimpse into the future of retail architecture.
What Is 3D Printing in Construction?
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, creates objects by layering material—usually concrete in construction—according to a digital design. This approach allows for rapid, precise, and customizable building, often at a lower cost than traditional methods.
Starbucks’ Recent Changes
This innovative store isn’t the only change Starbucks has made recently. The company has updated its dress code, requiring baristas to wear solid black tops to highlight the iconic green apron. They have also streamlined its menu and adjusted its restroom policy as part of its “Back to Starbucks” strategy under CEO Brian Niccol.
Starbucks 3D Printed Store: Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Brownsville, Texas (Boca Chica Boulevard) |
| Store Size | 1,400 square feet |
| Opening Date | May 2, 2025 |
| Services | Drive-thru, Mobile Pick-up |
| Construction Method | 3D Printed Concrete (COBOD BOD2 Printer) |
| Builder | PERI 3D Construction |
| Unique Benefit | Faster, eco-friendly construction |
Starbucks’ leap into 3D printed construction isn’t just a novelty—it’s a sign of how technology is reshaping the way we build, serve, and experience our favorite brands. As the aroma of fresh coffee mingles with the scent of innovation, one thing is clear: the future of retail is being built, one layer at a time.
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FAQs
The store is located in Brownsville, Texas, on Boca Chica Boulevard.
It was constructed using a COBOD BOD2 3D printer, which layers concrete to form the building’s structure.
3D printing allows for faster construction, reduced costs, less waste, and unique architectural designs.
No, the Brownsville location offers drive-thru and mobile pick-up only.
While Starbucks hasn’t announced more locations yet, this successful launch could pave the way for future 3D printed stores.
