September is here. The leaves are changing color, the kids are back in school, and it’s the last leg of Q3. But most importantly, pumpkin spice lattes have returned. Have you ever thought about how tech and software have changed the landscape of ordering a pumpkin spice latte? 

But first, a few pumpkin spice latte facts. The pumpkin spice latte was invented as recently as 2003 by Peter Dukes, Starbucks' director of espresso (yes, such a title exists), in the company's Seattle headquarters. It is Starbucks’ most popular seasonal beverage ever, selling around 20 million per season, and 600 million since 2003.

This tally doesn’t even include pumpkin spice lattes sold by other chains like Dunkin, Tim Hortons, Dutch Bros, or Petes. How high would a tower made of stacked pumpkin spice lattes reach? Would it go to the moon or beyond? We’re not sure…sorry. But we can share some interesting developments in SaaS that relate to pumpkin spice:

1. Mobile Ordering and Payment Apps:

The advent of mobile ordering apps has revolutionized the way we enjoy our pumpkin spice lattes. Customers can now conveniently place their orders ahead of time, skipping long lines and saving precious minutes. These apps often offer personalized rewards and promotions based on purchase history, encouraging repeat business and fostering customer loyalty. Additionally, mobile payment options have made the checkout process seamless and efficient. Mobile ordering improves ROI as well: one study found that 67% of customers who place mobile orders will visit an establishment more often than those who do not.

2. Supply Chain Management Software:

Behind the scenes, technology plays a crucial role in ensuring the timely delivery of pumpkin spice latte ingredients. Supply chain management software (SCM) enables companies to track pumpkin powder and spice supply, optimize transportation routes, and manage inventory levels effectively. This ensures that coffee shops always have a steady supply of the essential ingredients needed to create the beloved beverage. The ability of SCM to connect businesses to the ever-increasing complexity of global supply chains is a big driver of industry growth: the SCM market will reach $50 billion in valuation by 2032, at a CAGR of 11.1%.

3. Human Resources Management Systems:

HR software has transformed the way coffee shops manage their workforce, especially during the peak pumpkin spice latte season. These systems can help optimize scheduling, ensuring that there are enough baristas on hand to meet demand. Additionally, HR software can facilitate training and development, ensuring that employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to prepare the perfect pumpkin spice latte. Despite the acceleration or recent developments, HRM is still a sizeable sales opportunity: 56% of HR managers say their current software does not meet the needs of their organization.

4. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems:

CRM systems have become indispensable tools for coffee shops seeking to build strong relationships with their customers. By collecting and analyzing customer data, CRMs enable businesses to personalize promotions and recommendations. This helps to create a more tailored and enjoyable experience for customers, increasing their likelihood of returning. CRM allows companies to make personalized recommendations as nuanced as what day of the week and what time customers typically get their pumpkin spice fix. No wonder some reports suggest that the ROI of retail CRM is as much as 9:1 or higher!

5. Social Media Marketing Tools:

Social media platforms have become a powerful tool for coffee shops to generate excitement and buzz around their pumpkin spice latte offerings. By leveraging social media marketing tools, businesses can create engaging campaigns, encourage customer-generated content, and track the effectiveness of their marketing efforts. This helps to build brand awareness and drive sales. Social media marketing tools can also level the playing field for local businesses to compete against bigger names like Starbucks and Dunkin. Platforms like Instagram facilitate extremely nuanced advertising campaigns that target specific consumers for pennies on the dollar.

6. Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems:

Modern POS systems have streamlined the ordering and payment process, making it faster and more efficient for both customers and employees. These systems can also be integrated with other software, such as inventory management and analytics tools, providing valuable insights into sales trends and customer preferences. Card networks like Visa and Mastercard, along with retailers like Amazon, have rolled out biometric recognition hardware that allows customers to pay with a facial scan or handprint. This type of technology would allow pumpkin spice lovers to order their favorite beverage with a wink or a wave of the hand.

7. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning:

AI and machine learning are increasingly being used to enhance the pumpkin spice latte experience. Predictive analytics can help coffee shops forecast demand, ensuring that they have the right amount of ingredients and staff on hand. Additionally, AI-powered systems can provide personalized recommendations based on customer preferences, suggesting complementary items or alternative drinks. Why not complement your pumpkin spice latte with a hot pumpkin spice muffin? AI in the food business is even helping companies come up with new menu items. In Japan, AI-developed menus at one dining establishment increased sales by 10%. What new fall items will our robot overlords cook up?

Does Your Job Need Some Pumpkin Spice?

Psychologists have even suggested that pumpkin spice lattes can make us happier. What about your current software sales job? How do you feel about it moving into Q4? Will 2025 bring some changes? Whether you’re an account manager or sales (team) manager, I can help.

With nearly four decades of experience in software sales recruiting, I have a large network of companies and pre-vetted talent. Let’s connect this fall and discuss your career prospects or hiring needs in 2025 and beyond. Email me at mike@michaelblair.com. And if you enjoyed this article, please share it with your network via email or post it on LinkedIn!