In Partnership with Alsea, Starbucks Announces Plans to Expand and Elevate the Iconic Brand Around the World
- Laxman Narasimhan calls for a more global presence for Starbucks business and brand, including Greener Stores Framework.
- Alsea sets goal to operate 2,000 Starbucks stores globally by the end of 2025; announces market entry to Paraguay.
Seattle, WA – Building on more than 20 years of partnership, Starbucks and Alsea today announced a goal of operating 2,000 stores around the world by the end of 2025. Together, the companies operate Starbucks stores in 11 markets globally, and today also announced the expansion continues with the entry to Paraguay this May.
The news coincides with Laxman Narasimhan’s latest market visit – to Mexico – having officially taken over as ceo last month following a six-month immersion with the company.
In 2002, Starbucks entered the strategic alliance with Alsea to open its first store at Angel de la Independencia in Mexico City. Today, the partnership has transcended geographies, providing employment opportunities to more than 18,000 green apron partners in more than 1,660 stores across Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Uruguay in Latin America as well as European markets Spain, Portugal, France, Netherlands, Belgium & Luxembourg.
“For Starbucks long-term, sustainable growth, we will evolve to a more global presence for our business and our brand,” said Narasimhan. “Our business is a human connection business, and Alsea’s industry knowledge and market expertise has been a key factor in bringing the Starbucks Experience to markets globally in a way that honors the rich coffee heritage of the region, upholds Starbucks Mission, and delivers an elevated experience to our partners and our customers.”
“During our 20 years of shared history, Starbucks and Alsea have become a leader in the markets where we operate thanks to our strategic business vision. We share the same philosophy and values, placing our people and customers at the core, while prioritizing the communities we serve and taking care of the planet,” said Armando Torrado, CEO of Alsea. “Our strong alliance will ensure both the continued growth of Starbucks in the markets Alsea operates and the unique experience our customers have come to expect while visiting our stores.”
Accelerated Growth in Latin America and the Caribbean – Entry into Paraguay
In Latin America and the Caribbean, there are more than 1,600 Starbucks stores managed by ten licensed business operators and creating employment opportunities for more than 22,000 green apron partners. Alsea operates more than 70% of these stores, with more than 15,000 green apron partners proudly wearing the green apron regionally.
The entry to Paraguay will represent Starbucks 24th market in Latin America and the Caribbean, 86th market globally and 12th in partnership with Alsea. The announcement also marks a significant milestone in Starbucks South Cone region as the Starbucks and Alsea celebrate 20, 15 and 5 years of providing a warm and welcoming experience for customers to enjoy high-quality arabica coffee and handcrafted beverages in Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, respectively.
The first Starbucks store in Paraguay will open at Shopping del Sol in the capital city of Asunción, with plans for two additional stores in the market this year.
Digital channels and technology-based solutions are also pillars in Alsea's growth strategy. Starbucks is currently developing a comprehensive platform called "Starbucks Digital Solutions" that will allow digital channel expansion, improve the customer experience, and enhance loyalty programs and payment methods.
Partnering for the Future
As Starbucks and Alsea expand their footprint across the region, increasing drive-thru and smaller format locations and building Greener Stores will be integral strategies to underscore a shared commitment to meeting customers’ on-the-go lifestyles while designing, building, and operating responsible spaces.
The two companies recently announced the certification of Starbucks first Greener Stores in Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Uruguay in support of Starbucks global goal to cut our climate, water and waste footprints in half by 50% by 2030. Starbucks first Greener Store in Latin America and the Caribbean, also operated by Alsea, was certified in Santiago, Chile, in June 2022. Alsea currently operates 43 Starbucks Greener Stores globally.
In addition, Fundación Alsea, A.C. and The Starbucks Foundation recently announced the installation of 25 Aqua Towers water filtration systems with Planet Water Foundation over the next five years, guaranteeing access to clean and safe water for up to 45,000 people in various communities in Mexico and the markets where Alsea operates Starbucks. During April, Starbucks Global Month of Good, Starbucks partners and Alsea employees in Mexico will install two Aqua Towers in Oaxaca and Puebla, Mexico.
Looking to the future, Starbucks and Alsea will continue to strengthen their partnership with leading digital, design, and coffee innovations in service of partners and customers around the world.
About Starbucks
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 36,000 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.
About Alsea
Alsea is the leading restaurant operator in Latin America and Europe, with globally recognized brands in the Fast Food, Cafeterias, Casual Dining, Fast Casual and Family Restaurant segments. It has a multi-brand portfolio that includes Domino's Pizza, Starbucks, Burger King, Chili's, P. F. Chang's, Italianni's, The Cheesecake Factory, Vips, Vips Smart, El Portón, Archies, Foster's Hollywood, Gino's, TGI Fridays, Ole Mole and Corazón de Barro. The company operates more than 4,400 units in Mexico, Spain, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, France, Portugal, Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg and Uruguay. Its business model includes support to all its Business Units through a Support and Shared Services Center, providing support in Administrative, Development and Supply Chain processes.
For more information visit: www.alsea.com.mx.
Alsea shares are listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange under the ticker ALSEA*.
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