Starbucks in Winston Salem

“Last year, my partner and I were living in Asheville, NC and after Hurricane Helene we stayed at an AirBnB near this store. This was a safe space for us, and on our way out of town we even signed our new lease in the lobby. The partners and environment of this store are top notch - and I’ll never forget how warm and welcoming they were to us. Drinks were always perfect. I can’t remember the gentleman’s name, but he was a shift there for a long time (possibly since it opened?) and we frequently spoke about how great it was to have this store and the amazing atmosphere it puts out. When we are in the area again one day, we hope to make it to this store and visit again!

Philip“

“This location is the best! My friend and I go here once a week and the people that work here are so awesome! We tried other Starbucks locations and the people just weren't as friendly and accommodating as the people at this location.All of you guys here are THE BEST! Keep it up!“

“☕️ The Power of Being Remembered: A Primal Branding Moment

“ The new mission is to create a community of people who become so passionate about your success, they create it themselves!”
_ Patrick Hanlon

What a breathtaking day riding the highways and roaming through the Blue Ridge Terrace, just in time to watch the last dance of the season leaves 🍂 glowing in orange, red, and green under the autumn sun. 🍁

I stopped for my favorite Starbucks, expecting nothing more than caffeine and comfort. Instead, I experienced brand magic.

The young woman behind the counter remembered me not just my face, but my drink order. She hadn’t seen me in over three years!

I asked, “How in the world do you remember me?”

She smiled and said, “You were besties with my former manager.”

Here’s the powerful part this wasn’t even the same store!

She carried that culture that Starbucks spirit with her.

And when she leaned over to coach the new barista on how to make my drink just right, I realized I was witnessing something few brands ever achieve: authentic brand belief in motion.

☕️ Starbucks through the Lens of Primal Branding

1. The Creation Story:

From one coffee shop in Seattle to a global community where connection happens over every cup.

2. The Creed:

To inspire and nurture the human spirit one person, one cup, one neighborhood at a time.

3. The Icons:

The green siren. The cup with your name. The smile across the counter.

4. The Rituals:

Ordering your favorite drink. The first sip. The familiar sound of espresso and courageous conversation.

5. The Nonbelievers:

Those who see Starbucks as “just coffee.” They miss the emotional ecosystem built cup by cup.

6. The Sacred Words:

“Grande.” “My usual.” #LeadLoudly Signature Drink “Venti caramel drizzle latte with whip!”

Language that turns a transaction into belonging.

7. The Leader (and Believers):

The baristas, like Stella of Starbucks Frontis Plaza BIvd, Winston-Salem, NC who carry the creed in their hearts proving that brand love is built through humanity.

Today in Winston Salem, North Carolina, I didn’t just order coffee, I experienced a brand that remembered me.

💚 Leadership lesson: The best brands don’t just deliver consistency, they deliver connection.

They don’t just build customers, they build community.

Cheers ☕️ to brands that make us feel seen.

#Leadership #BrandStrategy #PrimalBranding #Starbucks #CX #Storytelling #Loyalty #BrandLove #Influence #CustomerExperience #LeadLoudly“

“The coffee is good, and it's a pleasant place to sit and sip while you let them other folks seem comfortable cursing each other out on Jonestown Rd. Rather amusing really. Thanks for the experience. KCS AND COMPANY.

Parking: I Ride a blue scooter. I find parking easily.“

“They were out of Nitro cold brew but Kelsey the one taking my order suggested that I get the regular vanilla sweet cream cold brew with cold foam to replicate the nitro, and even as a former Starbucks employee I didn’t even think to do that and it turned out to be even better! Love that they try to accommodate here.“

“I've figured out their scheme! They keep it even colder inside than outside to convince you to buy something warm. For those with limited budgets (such as students), best to bring a coat if you plan on sitting still and working for a while. All that aside, the drinks are fantastic, the camaraderie is lovely, and the prices are generally warranted.“

“Located just off the elevators from the Publix parking garage, this Starbucks is convenient to grab a hot or cold beverage before heading in to Publix to shop. The barista here made great recommendations and she made the caffeine-pick-me-up just perfect!“

“a few years ago, my mom was having surgery at the hospital and i was there with her for a few days. now, keep in mind, i was around 12 at this time. i noticed there was a starbucks in the hospital and my dad bought me some iced coffee (this was in 2017 so i don’t remember what drink) because it was early. well, my sister came along later and recommended a drink to get. so i got another drink a couple minutes later. then my mom gives me money and i get yet another drink. it was like 10 in the morning and the worker didn’t question why this twelve year old was downing three venti coffees at that time. i don’t remember his name or much else about it, but i reminisce about those times every time i pass it.“

“i was in line with those rude customers who continue to write reviews about the baristas just doing their jobs. baristas are customers too and deserve first pick over scalpers who will just end up reselling the cups anyways. got mine from target without harassing the workers <3“

“I really liked the service of several girls who have treated me here because they are patient, attentive and kind. My mom and I are a little nervous trying to speak in English, as soon as they noticed it, they quickly let us know that they could serve us in Spanish. You almost don't wait long for your order, they are fast. I love here!“

“I’m not a Starbucks fan but my family is. They love coffee flavored sweet drinks/shakes. My daughter is at the hospital and didn’t like the hospital tea, one of the nurses suggested she try the “sick tea” (aka “medicine ball”) from Starbucks. She liked it a lot!The place stays busy and sometimes they are understaffed. Patience and courtesy goes a long way. Be friendly and say hi to the barista. Strike up a quick conversation. Not everyone will be receptive, but those who do will be thankful.“

“By far my favorite Starbucks! The staff is always super friendly and knowledgeable! I’ve never had a bad drink before and I go to Starbucks very often. I usually do mobile orders, but the few times I’ve been inside, it’s always clean. 100% recommend choosing this Starbucks location!“

“It’s always a pleasant experience going here. After all, they do try their best with what they offer and their customer service. The drinks are usually great! 9.5/10. We’re all humans and sometimes can’t always be 100% which we should try to understand. If I can’t get up and do 100 every day, I don’t think it’s fair to expect that from anyone else. Always my favorite starbies to go to!“

“This Starbucks is located inside the Harris Teeter supermarket. It’s very convenient to get a drink before or after shopping. The girl who attended us was quick and friendly. They have a nice set up with a small seating area next to it. It’s a nice place to relax while shopping they offer all the same drinks and food as the other bigger Starbucks. So you can also grab a quick bite of one of their many desserts and quick bites. I am not Big on overpriced drinks but once in a while I like to try something exotic that you don’t see anywhere else that’s why today I got two different blackberry drinks, One was a bit sugary for me, but it was a perfect blend of blackberry and sage. The midnight drink appears to have some type of milk in it and was actually very tasty and refreshing. It’s a nice treat to myself while shopping.“