Overview

• Starbucks is set to open its first 3D printed store in the U.S. this Friday in Brownsville, Texas, near the U.S.-Mexico border.
• The store was built using a robotic arm to layer concrete, a method that showcases the potential of additive manufacturing in commercial construction.
• Experts describe the project as part of an experimental phase to explore the best applications of 3D printing in the industry.
• While more expensive than traditional construction, 3D printing offers faster build times and addresses labor shortages, with expectations of future cost competitiveness.
• Starbucks has not disclosed plans for additional 3D printed locations or the specific reasoning behind selecting Brownsville for this initiative.