Challenge
Starbucks operates one of the largest and most complex retail footprints in North America, with 16,995 U.S. stores and 1,280 stores in Canada. Supporting this network requires far more than large-scale print production. Starbucks’ in-store communication ecosystem includes highly versioned promotional signage, menu boards, beverage-specific messaging, localized offers, and store-specific marketing materials that must be precisely matched to individual locations.
Across annual promotional cycles, Imagine produces and distributes approximately 250,000 sign kits, with individual programs containing hundreds to more than 1,300 unique elements and averaging 30 to 70+ components per kit, in addition to menus, secondary signs, and multiple polybags or pads per location. New Store Kits introduce further complexity, ranging from 10 to 50 unique elements depending on store format and market requirements.
Solution
Imagine meets this challenge through a fully integrated print-to-distribution ecosystem powered by Dotti, our intelligent in-store marketing platform. Dotti is specifically designed to manage highly complex, multilocation retail and restaurant marketing programs by applying sophisticated location-specific business rules, automating version control, and ensuring each store receives only the materials required for its unique operating environment.
These capabilities are supported by Imagine’s large-scale operational infrastructure, including complex kitting and fulfillment services, advanced accuracy systems such as pick-to-light technology, and production facilities capable of generating an average of 17,000 unique kits per day. Combined with more than 600,000 square feet of warehouse space, Imagine provides the agility, capacity, and precision needed to support one of the most demanding signage and menu programs in North America.
Results
Since beginning promotional print production for Starbucks in 2008, expanding into kitting in 2023, and adding menu printing in 2024, Imagine has continuously evolved its capabilities to support the growing complexity of Starbucks’ in-store marketing ecosystem.
Over nearly two decades of partnership, Imagine has successfully managed hundreds of thousands of highly customized sign kits and menu components while adapting to changing promotional strategies, menu innovations, seasonal beverage launches, and time-sensitive program updates. Despite the scale, complexity, and accelerated timelines associated with Starbucks’ marketing programs, Imagine has never missed a sign kit deadline.