Starbucks Coffee Shops

Seattle, Washington is often referred to as the coffee capital of the world. It probably has the highest number of coffee houses per capita and its residents must have an appreciable amount of caffeine running through their bloodstreams. Of the many coffeehouse chains in Seattle, the most popular one by far is the world renown Starbucks Coffee Company.

The very first Starbucks coffee shop was established in 1971 at Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington with three initial owners. They specialized in selling premium gourmet coffee beans along with related equipment such as coffee makers and grinding machines. The original owners wanted to focus their business on the beans and machines aspect of coffee, and it wasn't until the company was sold to Howard Schultz in 1987 that actually coffee beverages were being served in the stores.

Starbucks Locations

Starbucks coffee shops began spreading like wildfire soon after the first cup of coffee was sold. Coffee houses were opened in both Chicago, Illinois and Vancouver, British Columbia in 1987. By the time Starbucks made its IPO of the company in 1992, it had already developed as many as 165 locations across North America. Shortly thereafter, the publicly-traded company became international with coffee shops in Tokyo and the United Kingdom. Starbucks coffee is now available in over 40 countries around the world.

Starbucks Products

In addition to selling coffee beans, Starbucks also brews a wide range of hot and cold drinks including espresso coffee, lattes, hot chocolate, teas, fruit smoothies, cappuccinos, and Frappuccinos. They have spawned many different coffee blends and flavours and are always open to new ideas. In fact, you can share, vote, and discuss on possible additions to their menu through the company's website.

Complementing their diverse set of beverages is an assortment of food products. Muffins, cookies, and other pastries are the usual choices, however, healthier items such as sandwiches and salads are also available.