In celebration of Starbucks 20th anniversary in Peru, Starbucks Latin America and Caribbean is proud to <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2023/starbucks-introduces-peru-mujeres-de-junin-a-celebration-of-women-in-coffee/">launch Starbucks® Perú Mujeres de Junín</a>, a new whole-bean coffee grown by more than 130 women coffee farmers from the Caniari producer association, in the Junín province in the Amazon rainforest east of Lima.

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Ahead of the coffee debut, 44 Green Apron partners (employees) from Starbucks Peru – managed by licensed retail operator Delosi – visited the association in June. They met and learned from the farmers, connected with the coffee at its origin and announced the donation of 40 drying beds and a coffee quality lab, made possible through the <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2023/starbucks-expands-we-are-all-coffee-initiative-to-support-coffee-growers-in-the-junin-region/">Todos Somos Café</a> (We Are All Coffee) campaign.

Started in 2019, the campaign aims to positively impact the lives of coffee-growing communities and strengthen the connection between Starbucks Peru partners, customers and coffee farmers.&nbsp;

The relationship with Junín builds on Starbucks previous community investments in Peru, including a <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/delosi-co-invests-in-grant-alongside-the-starbucks-foundation-to-support-education-initiative-in-peru-coffee-communities/">Global Community Impact grant awarded in 2022</a> to Peruvian nonprofit Transforma by The Starbucks Foundation – to support the development of early childhood education programs in coffee-growing communities – and the <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2023/the-starbucks-foundation-and-technoserve-partner-to-empower-women-in-coffee-farming-households-in-peru/">Mujeres CAFÉ initiative</a>, The Starbucks Foundation’s partnership with international nonprofit TechnoServe to develop leadership and communications skills in 1,300 women coffee farmers.

Hear directly from four women who are helping to bring Starbucks® Perú Mujeres de Junín to life, a bean-to-cup journey, a tribute to women: a farmer who grows the coffee, the business leader who manages the Starbucks Peru brand and two Green Apron partners who returned from their visit to Junín with a newfound perspective on the coffee they’re selling in their stores - and the people behind it.

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Seferina Cáceres, Junín coffee farmer

Coffee is a heritage from my parents. My parents were already dedicated to coffee production and were engaged in livestock farming. But I went more to coffee cultivation because it is more profitable. Most of the people here in San Martín de Pangoa, –most of them grow coffee. 

I am a single mother; I have two kids (15 and 9 years old). I have two stable employees and there are also people who come and harvest during the growing season. Here, there are several women, several mothers, like me, who are single, who have their own coffee, who dedicate themselves to coffee, and who have improved thanks to coffee. It has a great social impact. 

Since I started working with the Caniari producer association in 2019, they started to offer technicians, they came to visit and support me: when is the right time to sow, when to fertilize, how to renovate (old trees), how to wash and dry coffee, offering consistent and fair prices.

Coffee for me is a way out of many economic problems. Thanks to coffee, many things can be done. Of course, at the beginning everything is difficult, everything has its lows. But the reward at the end, the satisfaction of having achieved, of having been able to do your own things, your own business, your own chacra (farm), that is something great, something fulfilling. It will be difficult for anyone to bring you down from where you are. 

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I would like to own a big house for my children. So that the day I am gone, they will be safe and well. And for my children, to leave them with a good social status. And that's what coffee allows me to do: to pay for that. To my children, I want to tell them that I love them with all my life. They have been my strength, my engine. All this is for them, and everything that is going to be done, everything that is going to be built is for them, for their future.

I made up my mind at the age of 25 to go out on my own. I, a woman with only a high school diploma, I have been able to get ahead. You have to stand firm in what you want for your life, for your future.

Cristel Delgado, Starbucks Peru brand manager

In Latin America, in agriculture, there are not the same opportunities for women. The great majority of women are only dedicated to taking care of the home, cooking and caring for the children. Having the possibility from the brand to make this tribute to women allows us to put them in a very relevant place – where we talk about a society that transmits equity, where women can play a leading role in the economy of their families. This coffee pays tribute to these women.

I value very much Seferina – her strength, her integrity, her joy. She told all those stories with great joy. That's what I take away, how can there be so much strength in one being? I put the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2022/the-coveted-starbucks-coffee-master-black-aprons-return/">Coffee Master apron</a> on her. I told her that for us she is a Coffee Master, and I showed her the Perú Mujeres de Junín bag and told her that in that bag were her coffee beans, and that this is in gratitude for the role she plays as a woman who provides for her family.

I grew up in a home with a very caring, honest, but also very empathetic and very hospitable mom and dad. They taught me love for others, love for neighbors, towards our communities. Being a leader to more than&nbsp; 1,700 partners makes me feel a big responsibility. As a personal goal within my leadership, we aim to build a better society and help our partners become better individuals – more empathetic, more human, more humble – capable of sharing and being that small change in our country. This trip helped me look at my purpose again and say that I am on the right path, I am in the right organization.

Our country has an urgent need for education, empathy, respect for others and solidarity. In our country, we have faced many crises. From our role, we can make a difference and do things differently. Sometimes we think that this is the task of bigger people or companies, but the change starts with us.

This experience visiting Junín has been one of the most beautiful. We have learned many things. I think the first one is how we have connected with the beginning of the coffee. Getting to know the coffee growers, understanding their needs, identifying the hard work that they do, but also the responsibility and respect that they have for their crops makes us look at coffee today with a different perspective, from our role as partners, identifying the responsibility that we should have. We have come home with a sense of responsibility because we are part of that chain.

We feel very proud to be able to reach 20 years in Peru with a coffee that will represent us, that will tell the stories of a community that has needs, that has dreams, to which we can continue to commit ourselves. 

Allison Díaz del Olmo, Starbucks Peru barista

I have been with Starbucks Peru for four years. I feel that after this experience, when I go back to my store and brew a coffee, I will see the coffee farmer in every cup I am going to brew. We have learned, both from their work and from their life too. Every time I make a cup of coffee I’m going to think of them…They are going to be my motivation. 

I always thought that the coffee trees grew on flat ground, but that is not the case. There are farms much higher up (in the mountains). I had the opportunity to go up to the top (to a coffee farm). I imagine that the farmers, who do it every day, have a lot of willpower to climb up to the last tree.

My mom, she’s a single mother. The producer we went to the farm with (Seferina) she’s a single mother too. I’ve seen how she’s raised her children, working harder, teaching them. She reminds me a lot of my mother because my mother had me alone and my mother worked day and night.

Jhoselyn Trinidad, Starbucks Peru district manager

I’m a district manager, in charge of 10 stores. I started as a barista, then became a shift supervisor assistant store manager, a store manager and then I moved to the marketing department for a year. But I came back to operations.&nbsp; 

Seeing how much effort the women coffee farmers put into picking coffee cherries, carrying sacks of coffee beans, selling them, and the steps involved in the process, it truly gives you a different perspective and makes you value what we have even more… It makes me see and reaffirm that Peruvians are entrepreneurs and always give their best for their families. I identify with that because I’m a mother, a student and a worker. They work hard for their families, and I do the same.

Many times, we enjoy drinking our coffee without fully realizing the immense work that goes into it. My commitment to the coffee farmers is to continue providing the best experience through a cup of coffee and to ensure that we continue to have this growth that benefits everyone.

This Tribute to Women - Historias-en

Historias-en

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Starbucks in Peru, meet the people behind Latin America and the Caribbean’s newest coffee: Starbucks® Perú Mujeres de Junín.

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This Tribute to Women

The Starbucks Experience has arrived in Paraguay with our <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2023/starbucks-opens-first-store-in-paraguay/">first Starbucks store</a>, located at Shopping DelSol in the capital city of Asunción. &nbsp;

This first store celebrates the local cultural and coffee traditions and marks several milestones for the company including Starbucks 24th market in Latin America and the Caribbean, 86th market globally, and 12th together with Alsea. It is also the first of three Starbucks stores planned to open in Paraguay this year.

Check out our list of the top things to discover at this special store.

1. Beautiful store design that takes inspiration from the Guaraní people

Designed to create a warm and welcoming space rooted in local traditions and coffee heritage, Paraguay’s first Starbucks store features elements inspired by the history of the Guaraní people – a South American group that settled geographically in Paraguay and other South American countries. The store also pays homage to Paraguay’s unique culture, including a striking mural by renowned local artist Oz Montanía.

The mural tells the story of Iara, the ‘Mother of Waters’ in local folklore, which Montanía describes as a deity that protects rivers and its creatures. Peacefully resting on her arm, holding a coffee branch, the Siren protects the local sea life around her. Customers can enjoy the beautiful artwork inside the store’s café, or sip on their favorite handcrafted beverages in its relaxing exterior patio.<a id="_msocom_1"></a>

2. Passionate green apron partners who share their knowledge of the coffee craft

Our green apron partners have, and always will be, at the core of everything we do. Every day, our partners create meaningful moments of connection for our customers, sharing their passion for coffee and delivering our customers’ favorite handcrafted beverages. The new store employs more than 15 partners locally, all of whom have been trained not only in the fundamentals of coffee, but also in the way Starbucks connects with its customers and the larger community. &nbsp;

3. Coffee at the core of everything at Starbucks Paraguay

For more than 50 years, Starbucks has delivered high-quality coffee from diverse regions across the globe, and coffee continues to be the core of our business. Following this principle, our new store in Paraguay will offer classic preparations and innovative beverages for different tastes and seasons, as well as wide variety of whole bean coffee sourced from around the world including Starbucks® Espresso Roast, Starbucks® Caffè Verona®, Starbucks® Sumatra, Decaf Komodo Dragon Blend®, Starbucks® Pike Place® Roast, Starbucks® Guatemala Antigua, Starbucks® Colombia, Starbucks® Kenya, and Starbucks® House Blend.

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4. Delightful local Guaraní treats

With appreciation for different cultures and traditions, we are happy to offer locally relevant menu items at the Paraguay store as a familiar treat for customers. &nbsp;This includes the Guayaba Pasta Frola, a traditional pie prepared with guava paste and decorated with a latticed crust, and the Chipa with Anís, a Guaraní cultural product made from cassava starch and Paraguayan cheese.

5. A chance to join Starbucks sustainability journey

At Starbucks, we aspire to be a resource positive company, giving back more than we take from the planet. As part of our global commitment, every customer who brings their own reusable cup to the Shopping DelSol Starbucks store will receive a $4,000 guaranis discount. In addition, the store will feature Starbucks Grounds for Your Garden program, where customers are given a free bag of used coffee grounds to enrich their gardens and compost.

5 Things to Discover at Paraguay’s First Starbucks Store - Historias-en

5 Things to Discover at Paraguay’s First Starbucks Store

The Starbucks Experience has arrived in Paraguay with our first Starbucks store, located at Shopping DelSol in the capital city of Asunción. &nbsp; This first store celebrates the local cultural and coffee traditions and marks several milestones for the company including Starbucks 24th market in Latin America and the Caribbean, 86th market globally, and 12th […]

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The <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2023/starbucks-opens-first-store-in-guyana/">first Starbucks store in Guyana</a> marks a historic milestone for the company in Latin America and the Caribbean. As the company’s 23rd market in LAC, and 85th market globally, the Guyana debut is the latest proof point in the company’s long-term commitment to and investment in the region. The new store is located at Amazonia Mall, a shopping and dining hub on the east bank of Georgetown’s Demerara River.&nbsp;

Want to know more? Here are the five top things to know about Starbucks first store in Guyana.

1. It represents the intersection of convenience and connection.

The new location in Guyana’s capital boasts a convenient drive-thru lane and walk-up window designed for the dynamic hustle and bustle of the city. Customers can order their favorite Starbucks handcrafted beverages from the comfort of their own vehicles or pick up their orders while on-the-go. For those who wish to relax, unwind and enjoy Starbucks iconic coffeehouse experience, the store also features a spacious 2,475 sq. ft. café and a cozy outdoor patio.

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2. It features locally-inspired design.

When designing the Amazonia Mall store, Starbucks store designers took inspiration from Guyana’s unique ecosystem of lush rainforests as well as the textures, patterns, materials and culture of this special market. A stunning four-piece mural by Guyanese artist, Nigel “Nix” Butler, anchors the store. This engaging and dynamic composition features Guyana’s national animal, the jaguar, in his natural environment, looking towards the bar. The piece makes visitors feel as if they’re enjoying their cup of coffee in the rainforest!

3. At Starbucks Guyana, you will be greeted by passionate green apron partners.

Guided by our Mission and Values, Starbucks is committed to attracting and retaining an industry-leading team of partners (employees) and creating opportunities to develop fulfilling careers in the coffee industry. As a testament to this, Starbucks green apron partners for the Amazonia Mall store underwent a three-month barista training in Trinidad &amp; Tobago where they learned how to prepare Starbucks signature handcrafted coffee beverages. In our Starbucks Amazonia store, we have 20&nbsp;partners proudly wearing the green apron. They are happy to talk to you about brewing methods, whole bean coffee, Starbucks latest beverages, and more!

4. Coffee is at the core of our Starbucks Guyana café.

A key piece of the Starbucks Experience is how our partners connect with customers every day over their deep passion and love for coffee – from sharing their knowledge of the coffee craft to helping customers find their favorite beverage that meets their unique tastes and preferences. At the new store, customers can also find a range of whole bean coffees on display and a Guyana Been There mug, perfect for enjoying any daily cup of coffee.

5. The store represents Starbucks aspirations for a sustainable future.

Starbucks is committed to becoming resource positive and giving more than we take from the planet. The new Guyana store was built with ethically purchased and responsibly produced products of the highest quality. The store also offers strawless lids and participates in Starbucks Grounds for Your Garden program, which provides customers with spent coffee grounds from the store to use as a compost additive for their plants and gardens.

Top 5 Things to Know About Starbucks First Store in Guyana - Historias-en

Top 5 Things to Know About Starbucks First Store in Guyana

The first Starbucks store in Guyana marks a historic milestone for the company in Latin America and the Caribbean. As the company’s 23rd market in LAC, and 85th market globally, the Guyana debut is the latest proof point in the company’s long-term commitment to and investment in the region. The new store is located at […]

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The Starbucks Foundation has a 25-year history of investing in communities across the U.S. and globally. In March 2022, The Starbucks Foundation <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2022/the-starbucks-foundation-launches-global-community-impact-grants-initiative/">announced</a> a $30 million investment by 2030 in its Global Community Impact Grants portfolio designed to drive locally relevant impact in the communities where Starbucks operates around the world.

In the second year of the Global Community Impact Grants program, The Starbucks Foundation awarded grants to more than 90 nonprofits, all of which were nominated by Starbucks international licensees and will reach communities in more than 45 markets. Between grants and co-investment from international licensees, more than $3.8 million was awarded in 2023 to date for causes aligned to The Starbucks Foundation’s community impact goals, including youth workforce development, inclusion &amp; diversity, social services, hunger relief, economic opportunity, and coffee-, tea- and cocoa-growing communities.

In the Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), The Starbucks Foundation awarded 37 grants across 14 markets for causes ranging from youth workforce development to economic opportunity to promoting inclusion &amp; diversity. Grants were awarded to nonprofit organizations in Argentina, Barbados, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Mexico, Paraguay, Puerto Rico and Uruguay.

<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/global-community-impact-grants/">Learn more</a>&nbsp;about the program and organizations we are supporting in LAC and across the globe.

Supporting Youth Workforce Development, Economic Opportunity and Inclusion &amp; Diversity in Latin America and the Caribbean - Historias-en

Supporting Youth Workforce Development, Economic Opportunity and Inclusion &amp; Diversity in Latin America and the Caribbean

Updated September 28, 2023 The Starbucks Foundation has a 25-year history of investing in communities across the U.S. and globally. In March 2022, The Starbucks Foundation announced a $30 million investment by 2030 in its Global Community Impact Grants portfolio designed to drive locally relevant impact in the communities where Starbucks operates around the world. In the […]

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Supporting Youth Workforce Development, Economic Opportunity and Inclusion & Diversity in Latin America and the Caribbean

Starbucks expands its Greener Stores program in Latin America and Caribbean, advancing progress toward its resource positive goals. 12 markets in region obtain first-in-market Greener Store certifications. By the end of 2023 and going forward, Starbucks will build all new stores in LAC under the Greener Stores framework.

Today, Starbucks announced the continued expansion of its Greener Stores program across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) with 52 new Greener Stores certified across 12 markets, including the region’s first drive-thru Greener Store in Mexico City.

This means 13 markets across LAC have certified Greener Stores – Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay, and <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-first-greener-store-in-latin-america-certified-in-chile/">Chile</a>, which had the region’s first certified Greener Store.

“At Starbucks, we have always looked for ways to help protect our planet, and through our open-source Starbucks Greener Stores Framework, we have created a benchmark in environmentally responsible retail for design, construction and operation,” said Tom Ferguson, president, Latin America and the Caribbean at Starbucks. “With our new Greener Stores in the region, we are not only reducing our environmental impact, but also driving innovation at scale to ensure a sustainable future for all.”

Starbucks Greener Stores Framework, co-developed with the World Wildlife Fund, includes a set of 25 performance-based standards across environmental impact areas such as energy efficiency, water stewardship, and waste diversion. Each Greener Store has a different combination of sustainable features that help it receive its third-party verification. Some stores have obvious elements like solar panels or water recycling tanks. While others have less obvious features behind the counter like high efficiency appliances, low-emitting paint and sealants, recycling tampers, and energy efficient HVAC temperature systems.

By the end of 2023 and going forward, Starbucks will build all new stores in LAC under the Greener Stores framework. Globally, Starbucks has certified 3,508 Greener Stores across 20 markets, which sets the company well on its way to achieving its goal of 10,000 Greener Stores by 2025.

“With a company of Starbucks scale – any one action, no matter how small, has the potential for massive impact,” said Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer. “I’m so proud to see our Greener Stores Framework continue to scale for good globally. The program we have created will continue to move us closer towards our resource positive goals.”

LAC is similarly demonstrating its commitment to sustainability with Earth Month activations across the region focusing on building awareness on the little choices one can make to create big changes. On April 22, and while supplies last, participating stores are offering a reusable cup as a gift with purchase of any beverage, while others are offering a free beverage with a purchase of any reusable cup.

Starbucks Surpasses 50 Greener Stores in Latin America and the Caribbean - Historias-en

Starbucks Surpasses 50 Greener Stores in Latin America and the Caribbean

Starbucks expands its Greener Stores program in Latin America and Caribbean, advancing progress toward its resource positive goals. 12 markets in region obtain first-in-market Greener Store certifications.

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Laxman Narasimhan hosts his first Annual Meeting of Shareholders

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On his fourth day as Starbucks chief executive officer, Laxman Narasimhan hosted the company’s 31st Annual Meeting of Shareholders virtually. Together with the Starbucks Board of Directors, leadership team and green apron partners (employees) from around the world, Narasimhan shared what he learned throughout his immersion journey, including what it means to wear the green apron. And, importantly, he also also shared how these immersion observations will shape the future of Starbucks.&nbsp;

New ceo shares vision for a ‘limitless’ Starbucks&nbsp;

Narasimhan shared his bold vision for the refounding of Starbucks, which he reiterated in a <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2023/laxman-letter-to-partners-with-gratitude-and-optimism/">letter shared directly with partners</a> to mark the occasion.&nbsp;

“We have limitless potential, but we need to address what limits us,” said Narasimhan. “Our performance is strong, but our health needs to be stronger. We strive to be a different kind of company, and that is unchanged. But we now operate in a different kind of world.”

Leaders define what limitless means to them&nbsp;

Throughout Narasimhan’s immersion, he worked closely with the leadership team to define the limitless opportunities ahead for Starbucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starbucks leadership emphasized the importance of the company using its scale for good, being open-minded to new ways of doing business, continuing to innovate the partner experience and uplifting communities around the world.&nbsp;

Starbucks shared that with the reinvention plan underway comes a continued investment in partner wages and store operations, and leadership will continue to directly engage with retail partners for guidance. Narasimhan shared that to keep closely connected to the culture and customers, as well as the challenges and opportunities within retail stores, he plans to work in stores for a half day each month and expects his leadership team will stay closely connected to the frontline experience as well. “This is just the beginning,” he said.

Starbucks announced over $1 billion in investments in the overall partner experience. That's shown up with the introduction of new benefits and with increases in pay.

From the beginning, Starbucks has always believed the partner experience is foundational to the success of the company. This past fiscal year alone Starbucks invested more than $1 billion in wages and training, bringing the average hourly pay at Starbucks to nearly $17.50/hour nationally and with a range of $15-23/hour. Factoring in the value of Starbucks benefits – rated number one by Aon – that number can rise to up to $10 (making it nearly $27.50/hour), if our partners participate in all of our benefits. In addition, as a part of the reinvention plan, Starbucks recently completed the rollout of credit/debit tipping across all eligible stores, giving customers more ways to show their appreciation to partners.&nbsp;

Partner benefit enhancements mentioned in the last year include the renewal of the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2022/the-coveted-starbucks-coffee-master-black-aprons-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coffee Masters program</a> and the <a href="https://coffeeexperiences.starbucks.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Origin Experience</a> to deepen partners’ connection to coffee.&nbsp;

Human connection remains core to Starbucks&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his letter today, Narasimhan wrote, “Through my immersion, Howard, the leadership team and I have spent a significant amount of time discussing the universal need for human connection – something Starbucks is uniquely positioned to deliver – in a world full of isolation, loneliness and social exclusion. Together, we have acknowledged the opportunity for a refounding of Starbucks – to nurture the limitless possibilities for our partners, our customers, our communities, our farmers, our earth, and our shareholders by prioritizing human connection over every cup of coffee."

Scenic view of sunrise over Hacienda Alsacia coffee farm

Laxman Narasimhan hosts his first Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Top takeaways from Starbucks 2023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

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Photos by Taylor Kelliher, Joshua Trujillo, Connor Surdi

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;

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.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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. 

Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Narasimhan led his first Starbucks Annual Meeting of Shareholders, in Seattle, on March 23, joined by board chair Mellody Hobson (right) and the Starbucks senior leadership team, including Zabrina Jenkins (left) and AJ Jones II (second from left). &nbsp;

“These past six months have enabled me to listen, to learn, and to think about what the future of Starbucks looks like and what we need to do to get there,” Narasimhan said. “As the new ceo&nbsp;of Starbucks, I am confident that I know our business and our people well, but I will continue to learn and I'm excited to continue earning my green apron every day.”&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

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

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2023/photos-laxman-narasimhans-immersive-training-from-starbucks-barista-to-ceo/

Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is a region that has always been close to Starbucks heart and key to the brand’s growth. Since 1971, Starbucks has purchased coffee from local farmers and today, half of the company’s coffee is sourced from coffee farmers in LAC.

And now, 20 years since opening its first stores in Mexico and Puerto Rico, Starbucks is more committed than ever to investing in thriving communities across the region – including in a <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2023/starbucks-accelerates-growth-with-more-than-100-new-stores-planned-for-latin-america-and-the-caribbean-by-the-end-of-2023-announces-market-entry-into-guyana/">new market: Guyana</a>.&nbsp;

Starbucks recently surpassed its <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2023/starbucks-opens-first-drive-thru-store-in-dominican-republic-with-expansion-to-punta-cana/">1,600th store milestone in the region</a> and expects to open approximately 120 more stores by the end of 2023, continuing to meet the needs of local customers in the communities it serves.

Every day Starbucks works towards creating unique experiences that reflect the values and history of the local community. Part of that, of course, comes from Starbucks stores, where customers can enjoy their favorite hot or cold espresso-based beverages in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

As the company opens more stores in new cities, the focus will remain on meeting our customers’ needs, emphasizing on-the-go lifestyles and growth in new drive-thru stores. Since early 2022, Starbucks has opened nearly 50 drive thrus regionally, including five first-in-market drive-thru stores.&nbsp;

The first, located in Cali, <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-surpasses-50-stores-in-colombia-opens-its-first-drive-thru/">Colombia</a>, features a mural inspired by the city and its people, depicting the local music (salsa) and dance traditions. In <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-opens-first-drive-thru-store-in-barbados/">Barbados</a>, the building that houses Starbucks El Sueño drive-thru was once a lighthouse that dates back to 1910 and is located close to Worthing Beach. The stores in <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-expands-store-portfolio-in-the-bahamas-unveils-its-first-drive-thru/">The Bahamas</a> and <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-opens-first-drive-thru-store-in-jamaica/">Jamaica</a> are specially designed to provide a unique, on-the-go experience, featuring beautiful designs and murals that create inviting atmospheres for customers who come and wish to stay awhile. The newest store in Punta Cana, <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/press/2023/starbucks-abre-su-primera-tienda-drive-thru-en-republica-dominicana-con-expansion-en-punta-cana/">Dominican Republic</a> pays homage to the popular destination, also known as the “Jewel of the Caribbean”, combining high-quality Arabica coffee and a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere inspired by the local culture.

Additionally, and in keeping with the theme of customer convenience, Starbucks opened a small-format location in <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-barbados-expands-its-store-portfolio-with-the-unveiling-of-a-new-kiosk-in-holetown/">Barbados</a>, where customers can purchase their favorite Starbucks menu items while visiting Barbados’ renowned platinum coast. In Punta del Este, <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-opens-first-store-in-punta-del-este/">Uruguay</a>, customers can visit the beautiful Starbucks store that features walk-up windows, located within walking distance of the popular Brava Beach.

Starbucks is also committed to growing in LAC through a commitment to building a more equitable, resilient and sustainable future. The company strives to give more than it takes from the planet and to cut water, waste, and carbon footprints by 50% by 2030. To achieve this goal and become a truly resource positive company, Starbucks&nbsp;opened its first&nbsp;Greener Store&nbsp;in the region, located in&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhistorias.starbucks.com%2Fen-es%2Fpress%2F2022%2Fstarbucks-first-greener-store-in-latin-america-certified-in-chile%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CMariana.Flores%40edelman.com%7C8d98af8484c44b0c5e8d08db137d1a51%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C638125200295974942%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mIQA4b0kl6N7A8Rz7dm%2FZQsSRIG2oICsfu8PoszkRqY%3D&amp;reserved=0">Chile,&nbsp;</a>designed to use 50% less water and produce 20% less carbon.

This is only the first of many Greener Stores to come, as Starbucks aspires to build all new stores in Latin America and the Caribbean under the Greener Stores framework by the end of 2023 and moving forward.

Finally, at Starbucks, coffee is a means of connection. This is why it is of utmost importance to honor the traditions of LAC communities with programs that support local coffee farmers and stores that celebrate local art, architecture, and history.

Such is the case with Starbucks first store in <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-celebrates-1500th-store-milestone-in-latin-america-unveils-first-cafe-in-antigua-guatemala/">Antigua</a>, Guatemala that was opened as Starbucks&nbsp;1,500th store in LAC. This already iconic store was <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/top-5-things-to-see-at-starbucks-new-store-in-antigua-guatemala/">designed in partnership with local artists and artisans</a> to capture the artistic, warm and colorful spirit of this historic city.

In addition to highlighting the beauty of the amazingly restored building, the store features artwork ranging from murals to woodwork and impressive tapestries. The store also includes a magnificent patio where customers can enjoy their favorite beverages al fresco.

Elsewhere, the Teatro Nacional, an incredible French-style building in the heart of El Salvador’s capital, houses one of Starbucks most magical stores. With a classic look and one-of-a-kind ceiling mural styled after the original art of the building, this store is worth a visit.&nbsp;

Another stunning architectural gem is <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/starbucks-20-anniversary-latam-stores/">Bolivia’s Café 24 store</a>. Once the former residence of one Santa Cruz’s most important citizens, Melchor Pinto, a prominent local doctor and activist, this unique building has been restored to its historic, colonial style, preserving the original wood and hand-made cement tile floors.

With stores in every corner of the region, Starbucks is highlighting the beauty and history of the outstanding local community and proudly participating in a rich coffee heritage.

Because Starbucks is all about connection. This means bringing the coffee experience the company is known for to people near and far, providing consistent, personalized moments and &nbsp;building on a history of sustainability in the region.

Find out more about how we’re growing and elevating the Starbucks Experience in the region on the <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/">Historias Starbucks site</a>.

From Greener Stores to Inspiring Design: How Starbucks is Growing in Latin America - Historias-en

From Greener Stores to Inspiring Design: How Starbucks is Growing in Latin America

Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is a region that has always been close to Starbucks heart and key to the brand’s growth. Since 1971, Starbucks has purchased coffee from local farmers and today, half of the company’s coffee is sourced from coffee farmers in LAC. And now, 20 years since opening its first stores […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/34/2023/03/Header-Image_From-Greener-Stores-to-Inspiring-Design.jpg

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2023/from-greener-stores-to-inspiring-design-how-starbucks-is-growing-in-latin-america/

At the Costa Rica Farmer Support Center, Starbucks research and development agronomist Sara Bogantes is fighting for the future of coffee

On a recent morning at Hacienda Alsacia, <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2018/starbucks-farm-research-and-innovation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks coffee and research farm in Costa Rica</a>, agronomist Sara Bogantes walks through the outdoor plant nursery, studying the rows of coffee plants at various stages of growth – from three months old and just sprouting to three years old and about to burst into first harvest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To help cultivate and develop the next generation of coffee plants. To find those hybrids and varietals that have the elusive combination of good taste, high productivity and natural resistance to disease and climate change. And every day, with science, to fight for the future of coffee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I’m a fourth-generation coffee farmer, coffee is in my blood,” Bogantes says. “I love the connection with the farmers, but at the same time, I love making this connection through new tools, new varieties, new solutions.”&nbsp;

Bogantes works at the Costa Rica Farmer Support Center, one of <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2018/starbucks-farmer-support-centers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">10 that Starbucks has opened around the world</a>. There, she manages the “core collection” – 617 different coffee hybrids and varietals, available for free to any coffee farmer through the Starbucks open-source agronomy program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Currently, about 3 million coffee seeds per year are distributed from the core collection to farmers in Peru, Colombia, Mexico, Guatemala and Costa Rica – whether they sell to Starbucks or not.&nbsp;&nbsp;

About 230 hybrids in the core collection are being newly evaluated. Bogantes is part of a research and development team trying to help find the strongest and best among them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

They send leaf clippings for analysis to a laboratory in Sweden, to get early genetic clues about which are more resistant to coffee rust and anthracnose, fungal diseases that kill coffee plants. They run tests to see how the plants process and absorb nutrients, physically examine root systems and leaf structures, and taste early samples from those producing coffee cherries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the team identifies those that show the most promise, Bogantes works with labs on making micro-cuttings and tissue cultures, techniques which can speed up propagation and distribution. Stronger plants in the ground, faster, means more income for farmers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She also works closely with Carlos Mario Rodriguez, Starbucks head of global research and development, as part of the overall Farmer Support Center mission to directly train farmers and set up model farms based on <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/cafe-practices-starbucks-approach-to-ethically-sourcing-coffee/">C.A.F.E. practices</a> around ethical sourcing and sustainability, where all this knowledge can be practically disseminated, and farmers can see for themselves how to create optimal conditions on their own farms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“She's very good with teaching farmers, guiding them, because of the experience that she has,” Rodriguez says. “Having a young woman supporting and interacting with farmers is very important, and also is encouraging many young people to just keep working in coffee.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bogantes, 35, grew up on her family’s coffee farm in nearby San Isidro de Alajuela. She was deeply impacted when an epidemic of coffee rust, in 2014, killed off almost all her family’s coffee trees. She was in the U.S. at the time, working at an internship, when she received the urgent phone call.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I remember the weather was very cloudy. The day was so dark. It’s raining, cold,” she says, recalling the day she arrived back home. “And when I went to the coffee plantation, I remember looking at all the coffee trees, completely destroyed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You need to control your emotions because your parents are completely destroyed, and you need to give them support. You are feeling completely destroyed too, inside, but you need to be optimistic because you need to be the person to be the light.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

That, and a similar moment several years later in Puerto Rico, after she saw how Hurricanes Maria and Irma almost wiped out the country’s coffee industry, have underscored for Bogantes the urgency of researching and finding solutions. It’s been a theme her entire life, from her early internships in Brazil and the U.S. to her more recent work with nonprofits like World Coffee Research and TechnoServe. She joined Starbucks two years ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Nothing makes me feel happier than seeing the faces of the coffee producers smile, transmitting hope and supporting them in believing that there is a future in coffee,” Bogantes says. “I feel like I’m living my dreams, but if we want to ensure coffee for the next 50 years, we don’t have that much time. This is my challenge right now.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Meet the women leading in coffee around the globe

From coffee farms to coffee stores, and lots of points in between, we're spotlighting 12 women at Starbucks who are crucial to the coffee business – baristas, store managers, business directors, agronomists, roasters, leaders in sustainability and ethical sourcing, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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At the Costa Rica Farmer Support Center, Starbucks research and development agronomist Sara Bogantes is fighting for the future of coffee.

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

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2023/on-international-womens-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;

“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.” 

Stories

This Tribute to Women

5 Things to Discover at Paraguay’s First Starbucks Store

Top 5 Things to Know About Starbucks First Store in Guyana

Supporting Youth Workforce Development, Economic Opportunity and Inclusion & Diversity in Latin America and the Caribbean

Starbucks Surpasses 50 Greener Stores in Latin America and the Caribbean

Top takeaways from Starbucks 2023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

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

From Greener Stores to Inspiring Design: How Starbucks is Growing in Latin America

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

Beth Ann, manager, digital traceability program – Starbucks Support Center, Seattle

Qiong, coffee cupper – China