Photos by Taylor Kelliher, Joshua Trujillo, Connor Surdi

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Laxman Narasimhan took the helm of Starbucks as the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2023/laxman-narasimhan-assumes-role-of-starbucks-chief-executive-officer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new chief executive officer</a> on Monday, but before that, he spent almost six months being mentored by Howard Schultz, meeting with hundreds of partners (employees) around the world, earning his barista certification, and diving into the world of coffee. As Starbucks welcomes Narasimhan to his new role as ceo at today’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders, we take a look back at the people he has met across the company and around the world.&nbsp;

“It’s been a remarkable experience for me – from our origins, where we buy coffee from over a half a million farmers, through our roasting plans, our distribution centers, and into our stores,” Narasimhan said. “This immersion has been an incredible journey and a gift.”&nbsp;

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Narasimhan was welcomed as incoming chief executive officer of Starbucks with a coffee tasting in the place where it all began – at <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2015/store-tour-inside-1912-pike-place-seattle-usa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle’s Pike Place market store</a>. Soon after, he met&nbsp; Starbucks partners <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2022/incoming-starbucks-ceo-meets-partners-at-open-forum-shares-personal-journey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at his first open forum</a> on Sept. 8, 2022, three weeks before he officially joined the company Oct. 1. When Schultz, then interim chief executive officer, introduced Narasimhan to partners, he said that “the leader of Starbucks, the future of the company, must be steeped in humility and must have an innate understanding of humanity.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Schultz said as he got to know Narasimhan, he said he was stuck by his experience and leadership qualities. “I know we're going to be in great hands and I can promise you he is going to make us a better company.”&nbsp;

Listening and learning&nbsp;

Narasimhan worked with Schultz to create a unique immersion to learn about the Starbucks culture and the business.&nbsp;

“This time with Howard in stores, in the roasting plants, with partners, with investors, with customers – it's an incredible opportunity for me to be learning from one of the best entrepreneurs in the world,” Narasimhan said. 

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Narasimhan began immersion as incoming ceo by earning his barista certification with four weeks of in-store training and visits to more than 30 stores around the world – working the drive-thru window, learning the point-of-sale system and perfecting the topping of a Pumpkin Spice Latte.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I thought it was very important for me to put myself in the shoes of the partners and really understand what they do and how they do it,” Narasimhan said. “There were things I learned through experience in all of this. It taught me a lot.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alli Mendoza, a barista in Houston, was one of the partners who trained Narasimhan on the espresso bar. “People ask me what it’s like to train the ceo, like ‘Really, how was it?’” Mendoza said. “He loved interacting with people, he loves laughing and making people laugh. He just wants to learn and be a ceo who’s there for us.”&nbsp;

Coffee &amp; connection&nbsp;

In his visits to Starbucks stores, Narasimhan sat down with store managers, district managers and regional directors for their input and guidance. He said, “One piece of advice I hope to really live by was actually a question I was asked by a terrific store manager: ‘Did you earn your green apron today?’ It really got me reflective and thinking about how I could end each day in the future with that question, and hope that most days, the answer would be ‘yes.’”&nbsp;

The world of coffee&nbsp;

Narasimhan experienced the journey of Starbucks coffee from the first 10 feet to the last, starting from the fields where coffee is grown (such as Hacienda Alsacia above), to roasting plants in the United States and Europe, and Starbucks stores in London, Amsterdam, Japan, and the United States. Along the way, Narasimhan sipped countless cups of coffee. His favorite? Coffee from Guatemala.&nbsp;

Embracing innovation&nbsp;

Whether it’s hand-delivering a new cold foam blender to baristas in Seattle or testing out the virtual reality training for the new Clover Vertica™ in Minneapolis, Narasimhan has taken a hands-on approach to <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2022/recipe-for-reinvention-starbucks-unveils-innovations-for-better-customer-barista-experiences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new technologies to help create a better store experience</a> for partners and customers.

Celebrating with partners is one of the best part parts of the ceo job at Starbucks. In November, he attended his first <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-green-apron-partners-showcase-their-coffee-craft-and-skill-at-the-latin-america-and-caribbean-barista-championship/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barista Championship</a> at Hacienda Alsacia recognizing Starbucks coffee craft and expertise. In December, Narasimhan traveled to Arizona State University to honor the 850 Starbucks partners in the Fall 2022 graduating class who earned bachelor’s degrees through Arizona State University with the <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/careers/working-at-starbucks/education/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks College Achievement Plan</a>. In February, he spent time with partners in the Milan Roastery for the debut of <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/starbucks-oleato-olive-oil-meets-coffee" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks Oleato</a> beverages.&nbsp;

“On a very personal level, I’m going to be very connected to our partners and to our customers in the experience that we deliver – human connection,” Narasimhan said.&nbsp;

As Starbucks welcomes Narasimhan to his new role as ceo at the Starbucks Annual Meeting of Shareholders, we take a look back at the people he has met across the company and around the world.

Laxman Narasimhan’s immersive training – from Starbucks barista to ceo

Starbucks Canada

Photos: Laxman Narasimhan’s immersive training – from Starbucks barista to ceo

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First Nation members of the <a href="https://wewaikai.com/">We Wai Kai Nation</a> gathered on Monday for a ceremonial ground breaking to honour the land that will become the site of a new Starbucks store. This location will be operated by the We Wai Kai Nation, making this a first-of-its-kind collaboration for Starbucks in Canada.

Led by We Wai Kai Nation Chief &amp; Council and Economic Development, a traditional blessing and ground breaking ceremony was held to commemorate the beginning of this significant collaboration and new store. &nbsp;The ceremony reflected the nation’s traditions with an Eagle Down Blessing ceremony, a Ladies’ Dance, words of wisdom from Chief Chickite and Hereditary Chiefs and a Ground Breaking Ceremony with both representatives from We Wai Kai Nation and Starbucks Canada to mark the beginning of construction.

“We Wai Kai Nation is a proud leader in providing progressive economic, cultural and social services for its members, residents and businesses,” said Ronnie Chickite, Chief Councillor, We Wai Kai Nation. “Economic development is a key pillar of our strategic plan and an important component as we move towards treaty. It is through partnerships, like this one with Starbuck Canada, that will support our goal of self-reliance.”&nbsp;

As a licensed Starbucks store, it will be wholly operated by the We Wai Kai Nation, while providing the same Starbucks Experience customers enjoy at Starbucks stores across Canada. The We Wai Kai Nation will focus on hiring locally and the store’s design will reflect the origins and pride of We Wai Kai Nation with materials and local art with space for the community to connect over coffee. It is expected to open in the fall of this year.

“It is an honour and privilege to be welcomed into the We Wai Kai Nation and to help provide a space for the community to connect over coffee. We look forward to listening and learning from the people of We Wai Kai to help serve the unique needs and priorities of their community,” said Shannon Leisz, Vice President, Store Development, Starbucks Canada.&nbsp; “Together with We Wai Kai Nation, our shared vision has now become a shared reality. This incredible moment marks the beginning of what is possible for Starbucks and First Nation communities in Canada as we continue to work side by side.”

We Wai Kai Nation are members of the Kwakwakaʼwakw Indigenous peoples living on Quadra Island at the mouth of the Campbell River near Vancouver Island’s eastern coast. Spanning nearly 1,700 acres of forests and coastlines, its communities have long been known for their local artistry, hospitality and incredible natural beauty. For the nation’s 1,200 members, the new Starbucks store represents just one piece of its broader effort towards self-sustaining economic development. Guided by community values that include respect, accountability and environmental stewardship, its focus has been on both entrepreneurship and meaningful employment. To achieve this, We Wai Kai has been investing in local businesses, building talent, and fostering relationships with other organizations that share those values.

As part of Starbucks ongoing reconciliation journey and continued effort to advance equity, diversity and inclusion,&nbsp; is this moment serves as an important milestone in the company’s commitment to building respectful, meaningful relationships with First Nation communities.

Our aspiration is to be people positive—investing in humanity and the well-being of everyone we connect with, from our partners to coffee farmers to the customers in our stores and beyond.



People

Our aspiration is to be people positive—investing in humanity and the well-being of everyone we connect with, from our partners to coffee farmers to the customers in our stores and beyond.

People - Starbucks Canada

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Community

Inclusion and Diversity

Opportunity

First Nation members of the We Wai Kai Nation gathered on Monday for a ceremonial ground breaking to honour the land that will become the site of a new Starbucks store. This location will be operated by the We Wai Kai Nation, making this a first-of-its-kind collaboration for Starbucks in Canada.

Starbucks Canada and We Wai Kai Nation break ground on new Starbucks store - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks Canada and We Wai Kai Nation break ground on new Starbucks store

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Starbucks Delivers now available on DoorDash Canada at more than 500 stores, bringing delivery to nearly 50 new communities at participating locations

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TORONTO, March 14, 2023 - Starbucks Canada and DoorDash Canada announced a new partnership to offer on-demand delivery of Starbucks at participating locations. Beginning today, DoorDash customers will be able to enjoy fast and convenient delivery of Starbucks favourites from more than 500 stores.

The new partnership also expands Starbucks Delivers to nearly 50 new communities for the first time including Saint John, New Brunswick, Squamish, British Columbia and the province of Prince Edward Island. As one of Canada’s leading last-mile delivery platforms, DoorDash will provide customers with a quick and convenient way to have Starbucks delivered right to their doorstep, all with the click of a button.

“As we continue to innovate the Starbucks Experience with new and impactful ways to connect digitally, we are excited to expand how our customers can enjoy their Starbucks favourites wherever they may be,” said Lori Digulla, General Manager, Starbucks Canada. “Delivery remains a major growth opportunity for Starbucks, and our new partnership with DoorDash will help us reach even more Starbucks customers from coast-to-coast.”&nbsp;

“We’re thrilled to welcome Starbucks Canada onto DoorDash Canada and provide coffee lovers a simple way to get their Starbucks favourites delivered right to their doorstep,” said Shilpa Arora, General Manager, DoorDash Canada. “Canadians are continuing to prioritize convenience in their lives, and we are continuing to provide our customers what they are looking for.”

To celebrate the launch of Starbucks on DoorDash, customers can get $5 off their next three Starbucks orders of $20 or more from March 20 to April 2, 2023*.

Convenience for Customers&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Canada, customers will be able to access Starbucks Delivers via DoorDash on iOS and Android devices, in addition to <a href="https://www.doordash.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DoorDash.com</a>. Key features of the delivery program include:&nbsp;

Prompt Delivery: Orders placed through the DoorDash platform will be delivered by an extensive network of Dashers, designed for expedient and secure delivery so customers can enjoy their Starbucks beverage and food promptly. Customers can track their orders through DoorDash from preparation to drop-off.&nbsp;

Delivered Fresh: Starbucks has developed packaging solutions to help ensure the quality of hot and cold menu items including stickers for beverages to avoid spilling, tamper-evident packaging, and delivery-specific cup holders, including a two-cup tray exclusively for Starbucks Delivers to serve as a barrier between hot and cold beverages.

Customization: Starbucks will offer approximately 95% of its core menu items on DoorDash. Customers can customize their orders within the DoorDash app, including the ability to choose the amount of syrup, type of milk and espresso roasts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

DashPass, DoorDash’s monthly subscription program, provides customers ordering from Starbucks on DoorDash with $0 delivery fees. Other fees apply. Customers can check the <a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/delivery/">delivery locator</a> to see if delivery with DoorDash is available in their area.

About DoorDash&nbsp;Canada

DoorDash (NYSE: DASH) is a technology company that connects consumers with their favourite businesses in 27 countries across the globe. Founded in 2013, DoorDash enables local businesses to address consumers’ expectations of ease and immediacy and thrive in today’s convenience economy. By building the logistics infrastructure for local commerce, DoorDash is bringing communities closer, one doorstep at a time.

About Starbucks Canada&nbsp;

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with over 35,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/">stories.starbucks.ca</a> or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/">starbucks.ca</a>.

*Spend $20, Get $5 Off your next 3 orders: Offer valid from 03/20/2023 to 04/02/2023. On orders with a minimum subtotal of $20 or more, excluding taxes and fees. Does not apply to pick up or dine-in orders. Valid only at participating Starbucks® locations in Canada. Restricted delivery area. Menu items may be limited. Limit three redemptions per person. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. All deliveries subject to availability. Prices for Starbucks® items purchased through DoorDash may be higher than posted in stores or as marked. Must have or create a valid DoorDash account with a valid form of accepted payment on file. No cash value. Non-transferable. See full terms and conditions at <a href="http://help.doordash.com/consumers/s/article/offer-terms-conditions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help.doordash.com/consumers/s/article/offer-terms-conditions</a>

From the original third place to the latest kinds of Starbucks stores and ways to get your order to your favorite merchandise and more, we’re all about connecting and meeting you where you are.

Customer Experience

Coffee is at our heart, inspiring our craft and driving innovation—in our drinks, our food, our stores and new ways we bring the Starbucks experience to you wherever you are.

Coffee and Craft

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Starbucks Delivers is now available on DoorDash Canada at more than 500 stores, bringing delivery to nearly 50 new communities at participating locations

Starbucks and DoorDash Launch Delivery Partnership in Canada - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks and DoorDash Launch Delivery Partnership in Canada

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Claudia, director of Starbucks South Cone – Argentina, Chile, Uruguay&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“In 2007, by chance, the book "Put Your Heart Into It" came into my hands, and after reading it, I was deeply impressed to learn Howard Schultz's vision of making a company led from the heart, developing it with the soul and always placing people in the center. I immediately wondered if a company that puts its partners and clients at the center of its operation was the right place for me. The answer was simple: yes it was.&nbsp;&nbsp;

My journey with Starbucks began in 2008, as District Manager, when I cut the ribbon on store number 29 in Chile. Today, after 15 years working in the company, we are about to open our 300th store in the Southern Cone, and will celebrate our 20th, 15th, and 5th anniversaries in Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, respectively.&nbsp;

I am passionate about having the possibility to impact different communities and make our stores unique places to work. There are more than 4,000 partners in Starbucks Southern Cone to whom we offer training and real and attractive career development.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starbucks also allowed me to walk the path towards the exciting world of coffee, being able to see first-hand the entire value chain that exists behind each bean: from planting, maintaining the coffee trees, harvesting and subsequent sale. I had the unique opportunity to be in Costa Rica, and see the support that Starbucks provides to the coffee communities. That experience made me realize the responsibility of honoring each coffee bean that we serve daily, as a show of respect for all families and especially to all the women who are behind its production.”&nbsp;

Rina, head of sustainability and social impact – Malaysia&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rina started as a part-time barista in college before taking on different roles in marketing, public affairs, digital strategy and social impact. In 2022, she spearheaded the <a href="https://www.ywcakl.org.my/post/starbucks-upcycled-flavorlock-pouch-project-launch-in-starbucks-stores" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks Upcycled Flavorlock Pouch Program</a>, where Starbucks works with women and girls from low-income households to&nbsp;help turn whole bean coffee packaging into <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKKVtKwQr8g%22%20h%20HYPERLINK%20%22https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKKVtKwQr8g" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small lined pouches</a>, giving them a second life. Not only does this save potential trash from the landfill, but for every pouch sold, Starbucks donates money to the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) in Kuala Lumpur to contribute to vocational training to empower women and girls from undeserved communities.&nbsp;

“It is more than just coffee. I am very fortunate to love what I do and be presented with many interesting opportunities. At Starbucks, every day is an ongoing learning journey and it’s always exciting for me! Inspired by many partners, communities and NGOs that I worked with, my team and I are happy to pay it forward by strategizing sustainable social impact programs that are able to empower and create pathways for<s>to</s> the beneficiaries. While it has its challenges, it is undoubtedly a very fulfilling career.”&nbsp;

Grace and Hope, barista and shift supervisor, mother-daughter coffee masters – Korea&nbsp;

In 2005, after dropping her daughter off at school, Grace Bae saw a job advertisement at a nearby Starbucks and applied to be a barista. She’d been searching for jobs but felt she was being rejected due to her age.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Grace Bae: "I started working at the age of 39, and I'm already in my 50s, but my goal is to work for a long time because I'm good at managing my physical strength. A cup of coffee can be the start of someone’s day or a precious moment to enjoy with others, so I try to craft every beverage wholeheartedly.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hope: “Starbucks, where my mother worked, was my hangout place. After school, I used to do homework with my friends at Starbucks and wait for my mom to finish her work. It was a familiar space. Most of my childhood memories were with Starbucks. My mom taught me know-how to memorize things easily. It's a strange and special experience that I still have ‘buddy’ customers. These days, I have regular customers who ask me what's going on (after I’ve been away). This workplace has become a precious part of my life, and means as much to me as it does to my mother.”&nbsp;

Katsuko, café attendant – Japan&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I was married in my 20s and a housewife since then. My first part-time job was at age 76 (with Starbucks). When people are almost 80 years old, they are not given much responsibility in society generally. However, when I come to the store, I feel responsible and work on cleanliness as if I am in charge. As a resident of this area for nearly 50 years, I consider it my role to connect the community and my store. I want to be a bridge between artists and my store.&nbsp;

I am happy, rewarded and grateful to be given the responsibility of keeping the store and backyard clean. I am happy to be in a circle of young partners who are as old as my grandchildren and to talk with them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I thought I can cheer up the elderly in my community through my work. Younger partners will be able to provide customer service that is sensitive to the feelings of younger people. I can understand how elderly people are feeling. When I find someone who looks tired in the crowded store, I call out to him or her and also place a reserved card on a seat and ask him or her to sit and wait.”&nbsp;

Sneha, manager, one of 15 <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2020/starbucks-opens-two-all-female-stores-in-india/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">all women’s stores</a> – India&nbsp;&nbsp;

“My journey, it's been full of curiosity, learning new things, and of course, developing myself from a barista to a store manager.&nbsp;

When I started working in an all-women store, we were open about everything, like sharing anything with our team. When we have our store briefings, we could talk openly. So that was one thing which I loved the most about an all-women store. And I love how the customers also observed us… it was like, they were surprised. They've never seen this thing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What makes it special is, of course, the development of our women partners. They start building the leadership qualities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starbucks is a place where new ideas are welcomed. It means working in a positive environment where there are no boundaries to one’s growth and learnings. I always go back to the time when I was new to this organization and I was happy to know that the mission and values are not just theoretical, they also can be seen vividly in our stores.”&nbsp;

Tamara, store manager – Canada&nbsp;

“Starbucks mission and values match my own personal values. Empathy and community mean a lot to me. Ethical purchasing practices mean a lot to me.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(Many years ago), we had just launched a Reserve coffee that was a first offering from a co-op in Africa run by women – Burundi Ngozi. This was a groundbreaking time for female African coffee growers and my baristas were so inspired to share this story of empowerment in our industry. This is where I made it my mission to share my passion for coffee, coffee stories and coffee education.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I love seeing partners engage with our customers around coffee stories. Taking passionate partners and having them pursue (the) <a href="https://starbucksglobalacademy.com/coffee-academy/about/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coffee Master</a> (program) has been something I feel is incredibly important for our partner experience. Over the past 6 months, I have had four partners at my location become Coffee Masters, all future female leaders for Starbucks.”&nbsp;

Qiong, coffee cupper – China&nbsp;

Coffee cupping is the professional practice of observing the tastes and aromas of coffee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I chose to join the Starbucks Yunnan <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2018/starbucks-farmer-support-centers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Farmer Support Center</a> (FSC) because I majored in agriculture. As a Yunnanese, I naturally feel connected to coffee and tea, two major economic crops in Yunnan, and I used to have internship experience with a tea house as a tea cupper.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Yunnan, our FSC agronomists frequently visit the famers and teach them how to grow better coffee. Each year, our quality control team goes to the farms with the agronomists to do quality inspection, teaching farmers cupping, talking to them and helping them tackle the challenges in improving coffee quality. We are doing everything we can to support Yunnan farmers and the local community. One of my jobs is to go to coffee farms, teaching farmers how to do cupping.&nbsp;

I love coffee and I think coffee is an art that reflects a taste of life. Every coffee has a story, and every coffee has its own flavor. You can always learn something new from each coffee.”&nbsp;

Sylvia, national coffee ambassador, store manager – China&nbsp;

“When I was in college, I often went to the Starbucks store nearby. I was always inspired by the relaxing and joyful atmosphere created by Starbucks partners behind the bar. I thought being a barista should be fun, so I joined Starbucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The moment I put on my apron, I decided to be a good barista, because I always have role models around me. When I do a heart in latte art, my friends can already do reverse tulip. When I learned tulip, they can do swan... Not just latte art, but other skills as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our partners are not only diligent in practicing, but also willing to share experiences with me. So, I would love to share my coffee knowledge with more partners. When we share the same interests and beliefs, the way forward is hopeful, full of passion and strength. In the store, when a customer is smiling (because of) satisfying latte art, or reply to our greetings, these kinds of details make me feel that we are doing the right thing with our mission and values.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A small coffee bean holds great energy, and so do we. As long as we keep our faith and keep moving forward, we can certainly inspire the infinite possibilities of coffee and ourselves.”&nbsp;

Beth Ann, manager, <a href="https://traceability.starbucks.com/#/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital traceability program</a> – Starbucks Support Center, Seattle&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It wasn’t until I joined the Global Coffee team that I truly understood that Starbucks mission and values extend far beyond our offices, stores and local communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our commitment to ethical coffee sourcing and the standards we have in place through <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/cafe-practices-starbucks-approach-to-ethically-sourcing-coffee/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C.A.F.E. Practices</a> are rooted in this strong belief and realization that every decision we make as a company has a direct or indirect impact on people and planet, and with that comes immense responsibility and accountability. It’s not lost on me how significant this commitment is given our scale. We source coffee from over 30 countries and nearly 425k farmers around the world!&nbsp;

I like to refer to the <a href="https://traceability.starbucks.com/#/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Digital Traceability tool</a> as technology with a soul because it’s grounded in our commitment to transparency. Every customer should know where their coffee comes from, how it was sourced, and all of the hard work that goes into each cup. But we’re creating space for every voice to be heard and human story to be told, from the first 10 feet to the last 10 feet and every step in between. When you can replace labels with faces and places and use the power of storytelling to change hearts and minds, it becomes so much more than a cup of coffee.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Veronika, national barista champion – Italy&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Coffee attracts me with its history, but also with its uniqueness and the amount of work that goes behind a regular cup of coffee. I was always fascinated by a simple coffee bean – its shape, aroma, but also by many legends and rituals connected with this fruit. It's amazing how we got from Kaldi in Ethiopia to one of the most consumed and famous beverages in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Being a woman in the coffee industry is special, because when people think about farmers, roasters or baristas, they usually think about male workers.&nbsp; Women are highly present in fieldwork, harvest and sorting. Let’s not forget about some countries as Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda or Indonesia, where women play essential roles on farms. And I think that it would be nice having more women in trading, exporting and analysis or lab work where they are less present (now) because also there they can bring something new and help us grow up together.&nbsp;

It’s very important for us women to remember and believe that we can do and reach anything.”&nbsp;

Merel, plant supervisor, Amsterdam Roasting Plant – Netherlands

“In manufacturing operations, every day is different. We receive the green coffee, load and clean it, roast coffee, bag the coffee and load the pallets with bagged coffee on the trucks. As simple as it sounds, every step has its own challenges, and each step must be in perfect synch for the process to work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It takes the right people, training, and dedication to make this happen. Challenging as this might be, we make it work and I get to learn something new every day about our people, products and processes, which fits perfectly with my curious nature.&nbsp;

From a manufacturing position, I can say that women in any type of manufacturing environment are rare and thus more valuable, even more so in leadership positions. Know your value, recognize that the qualities and experiences you are bringing are valuable and others can learn from them. Above all, empower others – do what you love and give it your all. It might not work out the first time, or the second or third, but you will make it work.”&nbsp;

On International Women's Day, Starbucks celebrates the women leading the way in the coffee business

On International Women's Day, Starbucks celebrates the women leading the way in the coffee business - Starbucks Canada

On International Women&#8217;s Day, Starbucks celebrates the women leading the way in the coffee business

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On International Women’s Day, Starbucks celebrates the women leading the way in the coffee business

BUSTAMANTE, Costa Rica – For Kattya Hidalgo, the chickens came first. Then the eggs. It’s not clear which bring her more joy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hidalgo, 46, is part of a cohort of women farmers who work with <a href="https://www.beanvoyage.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bean Voyage</a>, a Costa Rican nonprofit supported in part by The Starbucks Foundation, that empowers smallholder women coffee farmers with training in farming techniques, climate change, business fundamentals, financial literacy and project management.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After they finish a year-long curriculum, they can apply for seed money to start income-diversification projects.&nbsp;

With $300 last year, Hidalgo bought eight chickens and built a coop.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“Hens caught my attention the most because here at home, we rarely eat meat. We prefer to eat eggs,” Hidalgo says. “But eggs are very expensive. We would limit ourselves to one egg a day. If you had eggs for lunch, you had no right to eat eggs at night.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I can’t explain to you the joy of seeing the first eggs, seeing my children – ‘Mommy, eggs!’ – eating eggs produced by me.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since March 2022, <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/the-starbucks-foundation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Starbucks Foundation</a> has awarded 10 grants totaling nearly $3 million to nonprofits working with women in coffee and tea-growing communities across seven countries, including Bean Voyage. This announcement, on International Women’s Day, is part of the Foundation’s continuing <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2022/the-starbucks-foundation-commits-to-uplift-one-million-women-and-girls-in-origin-communities-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">goal to positively impact 1 million women and girls in “origin communities” by 2030</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“We’re proud to work with nonprofits to reach women in coffee and tea-growing communities like Kattya,” says Alicia Vermaele, executive director of The Starbucks Foundation. “Through our Origin Grants, we’re helping to create opportunities and promote more equitable access to resources that enable women to improve their lives and livelihoods. We know that when we invest in a woman, we uplift not only that woman, but also her family and her community – leading to a brighter future for all.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

With these grants, The Starbucks Foundation expects to reach an additional 60,000 women and girls over the next three years.&nbsp;

In January, Sunghee Tark, co-founder and CEO of Bean Voyage, visited Hidalgo’s farm to check in on her and her hen project. Tark started the nonprofit in 2016 with her friend, Abhinav Khanal, after they graduated from college, in response to the millions of “invisible” women who work on coffee farms around the world. They chose the name Bean Voyage to help women coffee producers “feel like they’re traveling the world through their coffee,” Tark says.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Because of how the coffee industry has been structured, and then the cultural elements in many parts of the world, including Latin America, a lot of times, the work that women do isn’t necessarily valued the same way as the work that men do,” Tark says.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“As an organization, we believe that if women are provided with the resources and then the right conditions, they will know what to do moving forward. What we do is make those resources available so they can actually go out and build their own future for themselves.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

For 22 years, Hidalgo worked as a legal assistant in San José, the bustling capital of Costa Rica. But then her boss, a lawyer, died. She and her family moved back to the countryside, where she’d grown up, and took over a coffee, fruit and vegetable farm. Though she was enthusiastic, there was a lot to learn. That’s when she heard about Bean Voyage and became intrigued by its mission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We live not only in a country, but in a world of aggression, where women have always been given very little space,” Hidalgo says. “Here and everywhere, people have always believed that men are the ones in charge, the ones who have to bring food to the table, and that women are only meant to raise children, and it's not like that. We live in times of equality when both you and I can work, and we both can contribute.”&nbsp;

Hidalgo says she’s learned so much from Bean Voyage – not only about better farming techniques but also about being a leader in her community, climate change adaptation and business and entrepreneurship. She sometimes sells her extra eggs to neighbors, which provides additional income. And she hopes to export her coffee one day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I want to keep learning. I no longer see myself as someone who struggles to learn,” she says. “On the contrary, I want to learn more every day and become even better than what I am.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I love them. You have no idea,” she says, laughing. “My hens will die of old age, but I won’t eat them.”&nbsp;

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The Starbucks Foundation Origin Grant recipients

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Three women smiling outside on a farm, holding a plastic tub of eggs

Coffee and Craft - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/coffee-craft/

Here’s what impact looks like. Meet Kattya, a smallholder coffee farmer in Costa Rica, who’s building a better life for her family, one egg at a time.

New round of grants from The Starbucks Foundation will help uplift women and girls in coffee-growing communities

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2023/the-starbucks-foundation-announces-grants-to-uplift-1-million-women-and-girls-in-coffee-growing-communities/

Spring is in the air, and Starbucks is welcoming the season beginning Tuesday, March 7, with the introduction of a new Canadian exclusive beverage, the Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte, as well as the new Cinnamon Caramel Cream Cold Brew. Customers can enjoy the new beverages alongside new spring-inspired merchandise in stores, plus new and returning Starbucks packaged whole bean coffees with a refreshed look. &nbsp;

New Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte&nbsp;

Meet your new Matcha Canada! The <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2023/in-bloom-for-spring-and-exclusively-canadian-iced-strawberry-oat-matcha-tea-latte/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte</a> is spring in a sip, pairing matcha green tea with the familiar, refreshing flavour of strawberry. The complex flavour profile of matcha is rich and earthy with mellow vegetal, grassy notes, an inherent sweet nuttiness and a pleasantly bitter finish. Strawberry flavoured syrup and real strawberry pieces artfully complement the matcha and creamy oat beverage, creating a refreshing and balanced experience to welcome the brighter (and warmer) months ahead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Whether it’s a quiet walk in nature or a sweet escape at a spa or wellness retreat, we found inspiration in everyday moments that may provide pause and reinvigoration,” said Matthew Thornton, Starbucks beverage developer. "This inspired us to bring together the grounded earthiness of matcha, that first bite into a ripe, juicy strawberry with subtle notes of cucumber and a hint of lemon for a refreshing and balancing beverage experience when sipping on the new Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte.”&nbsp;

Starbucks customers in Canada will exclusively get the opportunity to taste the <a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/menu/product/2123737/iced" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Latte</a> this spring, while supplies last.&nbsp;

New Cinnamon Caramel Cream Cold Brew &nbsp;

The new <a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/menu/product/2123734/iced" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cinnamon Caramel Cream Cold Brew</a> is sweetened with vanilla syrup and topped with a cinnamon caramel foam and a dusting of cinnamon dolce topping. Building on the love of Starbucks Cold Brew, which is handcrafted in small batches daily, slow-steeped in cool water for 20 hours, without touching heat, the new beverage delivers a gorgeous cascade of cold foam that is velvety smooth. The new Cinnamon Caramel Cream Cold Brew joins Starbucks core menu to give cold coffee fans a delicious new Cold Brew to enjoy all year long.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Taking inspiration from salted caramels and gooey sticky buns, the new Cinnamon Caramel Cream Cold Brew is a lovely balance of decadent baking flavours with a delicate and creamy cold foam topping that seamlessly blends into the coffee with each sip,” said Erin Marinan, Starbucks beverage developer. “This velvety smooth beverage provides customers with a fresh take on the fan-favourite caramel flavour.” &nbsp;

Must-Have Merchandise &nbsp;

Customers can also find a selection of <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2023/starbucks-adds-a-pop-of-colour-to-spring-with-seasonally-inspired-drinkware/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spring inspired drinkware</a> featuring eye-catching combinations of bright hues to add a pop of colour to their favourite beverages this spring. As always, customers who want to make a small change in their routine and keep sustainability in mind can bring any clean, reusable cup into Starbucks and receive a $.10 discount on their order.

Seasonal Whole Bean Coffee &nbsp;

Celebrate Starbucks iconic dark roast with the return of <a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/menu/product/104/whole-bean?parent=%2Fat-home%2Fwhole-bean%2Fdark-roast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks® Anniversary Blend,</a> the company’s darkest seasonal blend returning to Starbucks stores for a limited time. This dark roast blend is a returning favourite, with tasting notes of cedary spice and black truffle. Sourced exclusively from Indonesia, specifically Sumatra, West Java, &amp; Sulawesi regions, Starbucks® Anniversary Blend was created in 1996 to celebrate the company’s 25th anniversary. The siren is the star of the bag, with each Anniversary Blend having its very own uniquely created siren. &nbsp;

For the first time in 10 years, Starbucks is debuting new designs on its whole bean coffee packages. Inspired by the people and stories associated with each offering, the new designs tell the unique story about the coffee’s origin and flavour profile. <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2023/starbucks-debuts-new-whole-bean-coffee-packaging-in-canada/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Learn more</a> about the Starbucks designers’ inspiration behind the new packaging.&nbsp;

Starbucks spring menu is in full bloom featuring the new Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte  - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks spring menu is in full bloom featuring the new Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte 

Spring is in the air, and Starbucks is welcoming the season beginning Tuesday, March 7, with the introduction of a new Canadian exclusive beverage, the Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte, as well as the new Cinnamon Caramel Cream Cold Brew

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2023/03/STBX_SPRINTER_2_SOCIAL_PA_SM_1440x700.png

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2023/starbucks-spring-menu-is-in-full-bloom-featuring-the-new-iced-strawberry-oat-matcha-tea-latte/

"All of our products start with exploration.” &nbsp;

For Starbucks newest seasonal beverage, that exploration took creative and senior product developer, Matt Thornton, to a refreshingly blissful place — inspired by the perfect pairing of beloved favourites.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the perfect Zen found in a Matcha Green Tea Latte to a crisp Strawberry Coconut Drink, flavours of strawberry and matcha have permanent homes on the Starbucks menu in Canada and have proven to be customer favourites year-round, whether it’s iced or hot. 

It was that love for these two rich and dynamic flavours that sparked the creation of the new spring beverage. The Starbucks team set out to give Canadians a fresh new taste experience reminiscent of a relaxing day at the spa - a moment of refreshing bliss from the very first sip. Just as Canadians begin shedding their winter layers and transition to warmer days ahead, the Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte provides a rejuvenating feeling of springtime in a cup.

“Whether it’s a quiet walk in nature or a sweet escape at a spa or wellness retreat, we found inspiration in everyday moments. This inspired us to bring together the grounded earthiness of matcha, that first bite into a ripe, juicy strawberry with subtle notes of cucumber and a hint of lemon for a refreshing and balancing beverage experience when sipping on the new Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte.”&nbsp;

Matt and the Starbucks team wanted to capture that invigorating burst of spring when crafting the drink’s new signature strawberry syrup. Infused with lemon and cucumber, it’s combined with unsweetened matcha and a creamy oat beverage, along with a few tasty, real pieces of strawberry to add a burst of fruit and a gorgeous pop of colour.&nbsp; The result is a moment of refreshing bliss from the very first sip.&nbsp;

“Bringing these incredible flavours together just felt natural. Strawberry makes matcha even more approachable, introducing another layer of freshness without too much sweetness. We’re so excited to share a first taste with Canada this spring.”&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.starbucks.ca/menu/product/2123737/iced">Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte</a> will be joining other popular seasonal non-dairy beverages like Starbucks Apple Crisp Oat Macchiato and Sugar Cookie Oat Latte. It’s available in stores as well as for delivery through Starbucks Delivers on Uber Eats, for a limited time.

Read more about the latest spring offerings at Starbucks here.&nbsp;

The new Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte features strawberry flavoured syrup combined with matcha and oat beverage to create a creamy drink mixed with real pieces of strawberry.

In bloom for spring and exclusively Canadian: Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte - Starbucks Canada

In bloom for spring and exclusively Canadian: Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2023/03/STBX_SPRINTER_2_SOCIAL_PA_SM_1440x700-1024x498.png

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2023/in-bloom-for-spring-and-exclusively-canadian-iced-strawberry-oat-matcha-tea-latte/

Spring has sprung at Starbucks and customers can add a pop of colour to their day with a variety of new drinkware in eye-catching combinations of bright hues. From cold cups to tumblers, mugs and more, these spring must-haves are available at participating Starbucks stores in Canada for a limited time, while supplies last. Plus, customers who bring a clean, personal reusable cup into participating cafés will receive 10 cents off their beverage. 

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Pricing of drinkware varies by retailer; availability may vary based on store location.

From cold cups to tumblers, mugs and more, these spring must-haves are available at participating Starbucks stores in Canada for a limited time

Starbucks adds a pop of colour to spring with seasonally inspired drinkware  - Starbucks Canada

Starbucks adds a pop of colour to spring with seasonally inspired drinkware 

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On International Women’s Day, Starbucks celebrates the women leading the way in the coffee business

New round of grants from The Starbucks Foundation will help uplift women and girls in coffee-growing communities

Starbucks spring menu is in full bloom featuring the new Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte

In bloom for spring and exclusively Canadian: Iced Strawberry Oat Matcha Tea Latte

Starbucks adds a pop of colour to spring with seasonally inspired drinkware

Starbucks debuts new whole bean coffee packaging in Canada

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