In preparing for the
November 2009 "Church on a Mission" series for Bell Road Church, I have surveyed various companies to get a
glimpse at their corporate mission statements. Without a doubt, Starbucks sets
a standard of excellence when it comes to creating an experience for their
customers, facilitating ambiance, and creating a feeling of belonging for their
patrons, most of whom will tell you that, to them, it's about SO much more than
coffee.
It should come as no
surprise that they've gone to great lengths to intentionally provide the
"Starbucks experience", but are you aware of HOW FAR they've taken
it? As you read the following, borrowed from their website, wrap your mind around what Church would look
like if we were this intentional in our ministry efforts. In fact, we should
be.
Mission Statement: "To inspire and nurture the human spirit —
one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time."
Our Coffee
It has always been, and will always be,
about quality. We’re passionate about ethically sourcing the finest coffee
beans, roasting them with great care, and improving the lives of people who
grow them. We care deeply about all of this; our work is never done.
Our Partners
We’re called partners, because it’s not
just a job, it’s our passion. Together, we embrace diversity to create a place
where each of us can be ourselves. We always treat each other with respect and
dignity. And we hold each other to that standard.
Our Customers
When we are fully engaged, we connect with,
laugh with, and uplift the lives of our customers— even if just for a few
moments. Sure, it starts with the promise of a perfectly made beverage, but our
work goes far beyond that. It’s really about human connection.
Our Stores
When our customers feel this sense of
belonging, our stores become a haven, a break from the worries outside, a place
where you can meet with friends. It’s about enjoyment at the speed of life—sometimes
slow and savored, sometimes faster. Always full of humanity.
Our Neighborhood
Every store is part of a community, and we
take our responsibility to be good neighbors seriously. We want to be invited
in wherever we do business. We can be a force for positive action— bringing
together our partners, customers, and the community to contribute every day.
Now we see that our responsibility—and our potential for good—is even larger.
The world is looking to Starbucks to set the new standard, yet again. We will
lead.
Our Shareholders
We know that as we deliver in each of these
areas, we enjoy the kind of success that rewards our shareholders. We are fully
accountable to get each of these elements right so that Starbucks—and everyone
it touches—can endure and thrive.
Onward
The bottom line: We always figured that putting people before products just made good common sense. So far, it’s been working out for us. Our relationships with farmers yield the highest quality coffees. The connections we make in communities create a loyal following. And the support we provide our baristas pays off everyday.
