I wouldnt recommend working at a licensed starbucks vs a standalone. I work at one in a safeway and it's like a few cents pay raise every few years, and no benefits or discounts.

Hey! I was a licensed barista before applying to a corporate store! Honestly, I’d recommend just working at a licensed store long enough to learn as much as you can. Study the recipes, read the updates and whatever you can, then go apply at a corporate store. OR switch to a different department in the grocery where you can make more money. I worked for Kroger and honestly it sucked. The union did nothing for us but they sure collected their union dues from our checks every week. Starbucks offers better benefits. Covid has made working at sbux soul sucking so maybe ride out that licensed position until things normalize, then gtfo.
Smile a lot in your interview. Works wonders :)

when you work at starbucks you work every role in the store- register, bar, etc. so you’ll do every once hired good luck on your interview!