Starbucks rolls out in-store wireless internet

Coffee chain will allow web access to 4.6 million BT broadband users

Starbucks hopes BT deal will help improve customer service

Starbucks is set to offer wireless internet access through its 650-strong branch network through an agreement with BT.

The partnership will allow 4.6 million BT broadband clients to use the service at the coffee shops. O2 iPhone users will be able to use the web at Starbucks under their contract, as will customers from iPass, Boingo and other BT Openzone roaming partners.

"At Starbucks, we are continually looking for new ways to develop our in-store offerings for our customers, and this new relationship with BT, provides an enhanced customer experience," said Robert Teagle, European IT director at Starbucks.

"As we continue to develop our technology strategies, this relationship will strengthen the Starbucks experience and amplify our stores as a must-go location for our customers."

The coffee shop chain will use the BT network to support its public customer hotspots and store operations systems. The implementation in some branches started this week and it is forecast to complete by the end of summer.

Starbucks rivals such as Pret A Manger are already offering complimentary wireless internet to increase product sales.