It’s time to come together once again for one of Starbucks most anticipated events: the 2024 LAC Barista Championship!

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This annual event will bring together National Barista Champions from 22 markets across the Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region for an exciting gathering at Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks coffee farm and global agronomy headquarters in Costa Rica. Over the course of four days, from November 11 to 14, this stunning setting, nestled in the heart of Costa Rican coffee country, will offer a profound connection to the origins of the beverage we all cherish.

But this championship goes beyond showcasing skill—it's about storytelling through coffee. Each barista brings their own experience, creativity, and passion to the table, blending technique with innovation. From signature beverages inspired by local traditions to inventive takes on Starbucks classics, the competitors will serve up a unique coffee journey.

At Hacienda Alsacia, with its unparalleled focus on sustainable coffee farming, the baristas will immerse themselves in the first 10 feet of the coffee journey, gaining a deeper understanding of the path coffee takes before it reaches the last 10 feet: the moment it is served to customers.

As always, the competition is not just about who takes home the title of LAC Barista Champion, but about celebrating the green apron partners who embody Starbucks passion and craftsmanship. For these baristas, it’s a chance to push the boundaries of their craft, showcase their love for coffee, and honor the journey from bean to cup. Their dedication, from perfect pours to stunning latte art, inspires and celebrates our coffee community at large.

So, join us as we celebrate these remarkable partners, their dedication to their craft, and their coffee stories that cross borders and cultures. Get to know the faces behind this year’s Championship!

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Celebrate the Art of Coffee and Meet the Green Apron Partners Competing in Starbucks 2024 LAC Barista Championship - Historias-en

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Celebrate the Art of Coffee and Meet the Green Apron Partners Competing in Starbucks 2024 LAC Barista Championship

This annual event brings together National Barista Champions from 22 markets across the Latin America and The Caribbean (LAC) region for an exciting gathering at Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks coffee farm and global agronomy headquarters in Costa Rica.

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https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2024/celebrate-the-art-of-coffee-and-meet-the-green-apron-partners-competing-in-starbucks-2024-lac-barista-championship/

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Earlier this month, we celebrated the craft and artistry that goes into making our iconic espresso-based beverages in Latin America and the Caribbean at the Starbucks LAC Barista Championship in Hacienda Alsacia, Costa Rica.

This event was a unique opportunity for green apron partners (employees) <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/starbucks-lac-barista-championship/">across the region</a> to showcase their knowledge and expertise, and to celebrate coffee passion with their fellow partners. The top National Barista Champions from unique LAC markets competed across three days for the overall title; <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/meet-the-champion-starbucks-lac-barista-championship/">Camila from Argentina</a> was officially crowned LAC Barista Champion.

"I've always loved learning and with coffee you never stop finding out new things", Camila told us. "If you're anything like me, then my advice for you is to take part in a tasting if you ever get a chance. You'll learn so much and will love coffee even more!"

All throughout the competition the partners outdid themselves through awesome skill and artistry, as you can imagine, such an occasion was ripe with the best coffee wisdom. So we asked our Champions for their tips and tricks to brew the best cup of coffee.

1. Start with the basics

Mauricesa from the Cayman Islands reminded us of the importance of properly storing our beans. After all, maintaining the quality of our key ingredient is fundamental to preparing a good cup of coffee.

“At home, we must ensure that the beans are kept in an airtight container at the right temperature and stored somewhere they can’t get wet,” she said. “Coffee is what you make it: it is a blank canvas packed with flavor to which you can add your own twist. Whether by adding creamers, milks, something sweet, or even by adding some coffee to your favorite recipes or desserts, coffee is all about personalizing and loving your experience.”

Once we have the coffee, the next step is knowing which brewing method to use. Even though everyone had their preferred way of making coffee, most of our Champions mentioned the French press as their favorite at home.

“I think a French press is a must-have!” said Shanyhah, who was representing the Bahamas. “What I love about it is that I can prepare my hot coffee every morning and when I get home, I can make iced coffee with the rest of the batch. I highly recommend it.”

Juan Marco from Guatemala shared another great trick: he told us we can use the French press to froth warm milk for a homemade cappuccino. “You just put the milk in the carafe and press up and down a couple of times until you get the desired texture for your coffee.”

John from Peru gave us a tip we didn’t expect. “Make sure to preheat the carafe before making the coffee. You can <a>dip</a> it in some hot water beforehand, for example. And always make sure you use filtered water!”

3. For your inner connoisseur

As we spoke more with our Champions, their suggestions became more specific. Yatziri from Costa Rica suggested we research the place where our coffee is from to find out more about it; understanding the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2022/introducing-the-next-generation-of-starbucks-coffee-art/">brewing instructions and coffee description</a>s can help you know what foods to pair it with to make the most of the flavors. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrew, a partner representing Jamaica, advised us to “try different brewing methods of your favorite coffee so you can see which one you like best.” On a similar note, Jezabel from Uruguay recommended we get out of our comfort zone and try different coffees and add some variations, such as different milks, <a>to</a> taste new combinations.

4. Cold brew all the way

For more experienced at-home baristas, Miguel Ángel from Mexico had this to say: “You’ve got to try to make your own Cold Brew coffee! Beans from Kenya are great for this. You only need a big glass container, then grind your coffee as coarsely as possible and put 10 g to every 180 ml of room-temperature water. Put your coffee mixture in the fridge for 20 hours and voilà! As an extra tip, I really like to add a slice of orange or grapefruit to the infusion to give it a more citrusy touch.”

All in all, the consensus for great coffee at home was to have fun and enjoy both the brewing and learning process behind a great cup.

“Always seek to improve your technique, whether by watching a video on YouTube or asking a partner at your local Starbucks store how to choose the perfect quality coffee for your taste,” recommended Vinicius, who’s representing Brazil for the fourth time.

Finally, a piece of advice from Moisés from Bolivia: “Enjoy every cup of coffee like it is your first one, so that every time you taste it, you can find new textures and flavors in it!”

Brew Your Best Cup of Coffee: Top tips and tricks from this year’s Starbucks LAC Barista Championship contestants - Historias-en

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Brew Your Best Cup of Coffee: Top tips and tricks from this year’s Starbucks LAC Barista Championship contestants

Earlier this month, we celebrated the craft and artistry that goes into making our iconic espresso-based beverages in Latin America and the Caribbean at the Starbucks LAC Barista Championship in Hacienda Alsacia, Costa Rica. This event was a unique opportunity for green apron partners (employees) across the region to showcase their knowledge and expertise, and […]

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/starbucks-lac-barista-championship-tips-and-tricks/

Set against the beautiful green hills of Costa Rica at Starbucks first and only coffee farm Hacienda Alsacia, this year’s Starbucks Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Barista Championship reunited top baristas representing <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/starbucks-lac-barista-championship/">21 markets across the region</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With mesmerizing precision and support for their fellow competitors, baristas flashed their latte art skills and flexed their beverage mastery.

“It makes me so proud that as we celebrate two decades of presence in this dynamic region, we have the opportunity to see our green apron partners gathered together at Hacienda Alsacia – Starbucks beautiful coffee farm – to showcase their coffee knowledge and expertise,” said Tom Ferguson, president, Starbucks Latin America and Caribbean.

After three days of competition where partners displayed their skill and artistry through multiple rounds of exciting coffee challenges, including espresso shot pulling, milk steaming, latte art and beverage innovation, <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/">Camila from Argentina earned the prestigious title of Starbucks LAC Barista Champion 2022</a>.

“It’s been an incredible experience that extends beyond winning and representing my market and the larger Latin America and Caribbean region,” the champion said about her win. “What I’m most proud of is being part of something bigger and sharing an experience like this with so many beautiful people. I wouldn't change it for the world.”

Tasting coffee with her fellow competitors until dawn, sharing stories, practicing their craft, laughing and connecting through coffee was an invaluable experience to Camila, who felt supported by her partners every step of the way.

“Nothing really prepares you for this adventure,” she noted, “but it sure is worth it: the connections you make, the things you learn. I left Argentina with no idea how much knowledge and love I would leave the competition with. It would be amazing to participate again, but I would also like more partners to have the ability to experience this journey.”

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This year, Starbucks green apron partners gathered at Hacienda Alsacia to fully experience the deep care that goes into the first 10 feet of a cup of coffee to share that connection with customers at the last 10 feet.

“The Championship helped us appreciate the importance of our work in the stores,” Camila shared. “It is an honor to be part of the arduous process behind a single coffee bean. However, the Championship was also about solidarity and being united. The friendships I’ve made here are the most beautiful thing I’m taking back home.”

It was a thrill to watch these outstanding coffee experts share their passion, love and out-of-this-world skills during the Starbucks LAC Barista Championship 2022. We are excited to continue recognizing the coffee mastery of our partners, who inspire us every day!

Let’s raise a mug for this year’s Starbucks LAC Barista Champion, Camila from Argentina! - Historias-en

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Let’s raise a mug for this year’s Starbucks LAC Barista Champion, Camila from Argentina!

Set against the beautiful green hills of Costa Rica at Starbucks first and only coffee farm Hacienda Alsacia, this year’s Starbucks Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Barista Championship reunited top baristas representing 21 markets across the region.&nbsp;&nbsp; With mesmerizing precision and support for their fellow competitors, baristas flashed their latte art skills and flexed their […]

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/meet-the-champion-starbucks-lac-barista-championship/

One thing hasn't changed over the last 20 years since we opened our first stores in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC): our partners' passion for coffee!

We're proud of all the milestones we've reached in these two decades, but most importantly we are proud of the thousands of green apron partners that day in and day out handcraft our customers' favorite espresso-based drinks.

To recognize the skill and dedication of our green apron partners, as a company we celebrate the Barista Championship around the world. This year, the Championship will return to the LAC region, where partners will showcase their coffee passion, creativity and expertise. National Barista Champions from 21 unique LAC markets will compete across three days for the overall title, with a crowning at Starbucks coffee farm <a href="https://www.starbuckscoffeefarm.com/en/">Hacienda Alsacia</a> in Costa Rica.

Hosting the event at Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks global agronomy headquarters, provides participating partners the unique opportunity to experience first-hand the first 10 feet of the coffee journey, which will enrich their knowledge of the last 10 feet: right before the cup of coffee reaches a customer.

Join the excitement of the Starbucks LAC Barista Championship and get to know this year’s contestants!

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Meet our 21 Champions: Get to know our green apron partners participating in this year’s Starbucks LAC Barista Championship! - Historias-en

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Meet our 21 Champions: Get to know our green apron partners participating in this year’s Starbucks LAC Barista Championship!

For 20 years, Starbucks partners across Latin America have been hard at work preparing your favorite beverages. To recognize their craft and dedication we are celebrating the Starbucks LAC Barista Championship.

Get to know our green apron partners participating in this year’s Starbucks LAC Barista Champiohip

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/starbucks-lac-barista-championship/

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This year is very special for Starbucks as it marks our 20th anniversary in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). It’s been two decades since we opened our first Starbucks stores in the region – at Angel de la Independencia in Mexico City and Old San Juan in Puerto Rico ─ and it’s been an enriching experience throughout! Every opening has brought us closer to the wonderfully diverse communities of Latin America and helped us offer the Starbucks Experience to more customers.

From the warmth of our green apron partners that uplift the everyday in their interactions with customers to the beauty of the different landscapes, we’ve sought out to capture the region’s unique coffee heritage, as well as the essence and traditions of each specific location through the design of our stores.

To celebrate our 20th anniversary in LAC, let’s explore 20 of our most stunning stores that you can visit next time you are in the neighborhood for a cafecito or a cafezinho!

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mexico City, Mexico

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Back in 2002, Mexico City welcomed the first Starbucks store of Latin America. Today, with over 750 stores across the market, this cosmopolitan metropolis is also home to our first Reserve Bar in the region, where customers can find Starbucks premium coffee line, buy exclusive products and try out alternative coffee methods.

The store’s design highlights unique materials from different parts of Mexico, as well as lovely murals created by Edgar Saner depicting the market’s own coffee traditions. &nbsp;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dorado, Puerto Rico

Little-known fact: the Dorado Express store is our <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2021/starbucks-opens-first-drive-thru-only-store-in-puerto-rico/">first ever Starbucks Drive-Thru Only location in the Caribbean</a>. Rightfully so, as Puerto Rico has a strong coffee tradition that calls for a Starbucks Experience that brings convenience, connection and, of course, personalization.

The store is located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico and its modern and practical design is both welcoming and uplifting.

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Santiago, Chile

Within the modern Las Condes neighborhood, known for its chic hotels and lively dining scene, you can find our <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/press/2022/la-primera-greener-store-de-starbucks-en-america-latina-es-certificada-en-chile/">first-ever Greener Store in Latin America and the Caribbean</a>.

The store was designed to use 50% less water and produce 20% less carbon to help us reach our global sustainability goals.

The interior design is also environmentally friendly as the furniture and finishes are made out of recycled materials, a trend that we’ve seen in <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/stories/2021/starbucks-chile-sostenibilidad/">other Chilean stores</a>.

Starbucks first entered Chile in 2003 with Isidoro Goyenechea store in Santiago. Since then, we’ve expanded to over 140 stores and the market has been a <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-chile-celebrates-earth-day-with-discounts-to-promote-reusables-and-more-sustainable-options/">leader in sustainability</a>, offering EV chargers for customers, launching a program to manage in-store food waste, and continuing to expand its plant-based menu.

The Pan Americana Sur store features one of our most unique designs to say the least.

Right next to the emblematic Pan-American Highway, this is the first store in Latin America to be built using recycled shipping containers, part of a Starbucks green-building initiative to save water, energy and improve air quality.

Fittingly, it is also our first Drive-Thru format store in Peru. So, whether customers are <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-introduces-chunqui-whole-bean-coffee-produced-by-coffee-growers-in-northern-peru/">picking up our latest whole bean coffee</a>, stopping for a <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/press/2022/starbucks-presenta-el-cafe-de-grano-entero-chunqui-producido-por-caficultores-del-norte-del-peru/">quick treat</a>, or just wishing to take a break resting under a green umbrella on the store’s patio, we’ve got them covered.

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamar, the secondstore in the Bahamas stands out due to its size – it’s one of the smallest stores in the region. However, size doesn’t matter as this fantastic little store is unforgettable.

The capsule-like design of this store is ideal for those seeking refuge from busy everyday life. The subtle details, such as the pink penny tile that pays tribute to colorful Bahamian design, the gold decals on the walls and the large dark glass mirror creates an airy ambiance of added depth.

6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Santos Dumont store is located inside Rio’s airport of the same name. Unlike other airport stores that blend in with the architecture and style of the buildings they’re found in, this particular Starbucks store stands out due to its minimalistic and beautiful design.

The artwork on the windows pays homage to the anniversary siren, while the bar’s woodwork is inspired by Ipanema’s iconic sidewalks. The warm colors of the walls and finishes evoke Rio’s stunning sunsets and sunrises, and the terrazzo flooring is reminiscent of the city’s beaches.

7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Buenos Aires, Argentina

What people first notice about the La Lucila Starbucks store in Buenos Aires is the impressive exterior artwork that portrays two iconic Argentinian birds ─ the Cortarramas and the Gorrión ─ flying over a coffee plantation. Argentina’s national flower, the coral tree, is also represented in the mural painted by Fio Silva.

What’s also wonderful about the streetside art is that it can still be enjoyed by customers ordering their <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/press/2022/starbucks-lanza-bebida-stranger-frappuccino-en-chile-argentina-uruguay/">favorite beverage</a>s on the go. La Lucila store is the first Drive-Thru available in Argentina, meeting the needs of the Porteños, the people who inhabit the bustling city of Buenos Aires.

8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Palm Beach, Aruba

In Aruba, the perfect coffee break awaits customers at the Marriott Stellaris lobby, where they can find a beautifully designed Starbucks store worthy of the idyllic island.

With a beautiful custom wood design representing the ocean waves and stunning hand-painted siren wall art, customers can feel the breeze even indoors.

9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Antigua, Guatemala

In our special 1,500th store in Latin America and the Caribbean, customers can find high-quality arabica coffee from Guatemala, including the Guatemala Antigua whole bean coffee year-round.

Located just steps from the iconic Santa Catalina Arch in the city of Antigua, a UNESCO Heritage site, the building used to be a private residence dating back to the 1930s. Many of the original architectural elements have been restored and, as Starbucks tradition calls for, it features the work of <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/stories/2022/top-5-things-to-see-at-starbucks-new-store-in-antigua-guatemala/">local artists and designers</a>.

The two store murals were created by local painter and muralist Alvaro Tzaj Yotz and represent the female work and legacy behind the Guatemalan coffee industry as well as the national flora and fauna such as hummingbirds and the wondrous quetzal.

10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; San Luis, Costa Rica

We cannot talk about remarkable Starbucks stores in Latin America without mentioning the café at our first-ever coffee farm: <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/stories/2018/5-cosas-que-debes-saber-sobre-la-finca-cafetera-de-starbucks-hacienda-alsacia/">Hacienda Alsacia</a>.

It is also the first of 10 Farmer Support Centers Starbucks operates, where farmers get free access to the latest agronomy findings. However, the best thing about Hacienda Alsacia is that it is <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/stories/2021/starbucks-tour-virtual-costa-rica/">open to visitors</a>!

Located in the beautiful slopes of the Poas volcano in San Luis, Sabanilla, Alajuela, guests can enjoy a guided tour and experience the entire <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/es/stories/2018/escuchando-a-la-tierra-creando-el-centro-de-visitantes-starbucks-en-la-hacienda-alsacia/">journey of a cup of coffee</a> first-hand: from seedling, to roasting, to tasting.

The Multiplaza Escazú store in San Rafael features a design that mixes industrial finishes and hacienda-style furniture that evoke Alsacia’s craftmanship as well as the richness of Costa Rica’s rich flora and fauna through delicate murals inside the store and in the terrace area, by Majo Rodriguez.

12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cali, Colombia

Located in one of Colombia’s most iconic cities, the Starbucks store in Cali stands out due to its impressive circular design and the strong connection between the exterior and interior.

The glass walls surrounding the impressive building located inside the Jardín Plaza mall, lets visitors enjoy their favorite beverages while also appreciating the nearby gardens.

Cali was the third city Starbucks entered in Colombia. The company now operates stores across five cities, with the most recent opening in the vibrant coastal hub of <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-opens-first-cafe-in-cartagena-colombia/">Cartagena</a>.

One interesting fact about our Colombia cafes is that all espresso-based handcrafted beverages are made with Colombian coffee.

13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia

Bolivia’s Café 24 store is located in one Santa Cruz’s most iconic buildings: the former residence of Melchor Pinto, a prominent local doctor and activist. It has been restored to its colonial style, preserving the original wood and hand-made cement tile floors and showcasing the beauty of the original architectural style.

Our team worked very closely with local artist Adolfo Torrico to develop a proposal that was relevant and appropriate for such a unique site. Inspired by the natural environment, culture, and traditions of local coffee farms, the mural celebrates the origin and heritage of Bolivian coffee.

14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; La Chorrera, Panama

The Drive-Thru experience of Panama’s Costa Verde store is enhanced by the beautiful artwork that surrounds the building.

Featuring green and turquoise flowers that blend in with the natural foliage of the Costa Verde community, this Starbucks store is the ideal spot for a casual meet-up with friends or a break from everyday activities whether customers wish to sit down or just pick up their favorite beverage.

15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chaguanas, Trinidad &amp; Tobago

This Starbucks store truly embodies what a Third Place must be: an inviting destination to relax, unwind and connect.

The Endeavour store is not only the first Drive-Thru in the market but also includes an art installation that celebrates Trini people and their culture. Local artist Beverley Fitzwilliam Harries created a large painting using only coffee pigment for the store, featuring a coffee harvesting scene within a rich tropical landscape.

16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Montego Bay, Jamaica

To celebrate our 20th anniversary in LAC, let’s explore 20 of our most stunning stores that you can visit next time you are in the neighborhood for a cafecito or a cafezinho!

20 Starbucks stores in Latin America that will have you planning your next adventure - Historias-en

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20 Starbucks stores in Latin America that will have you planning your next adventure

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Marks fifth city entry and 46th store in the market; store design and beverage offerings celebrate Colombian coffee culture ahead of National Coffee Day.

Cartagena ─ As part of its continued expansion plans in the market, Alsea – Starbucks operating licensee in Colombia – today announced the arrival of the company’s first café in Cartagena, a popular port city and beach destination on the Caribbean coast. Located at the intersection of San Martin Avenue and Calle 8 in the Bocagrande district, the new store opens its doors on June 24, inviting customers to enjoy 100% locally sourced Colombian coffee in its handcrafted espresso-based beverages as well as a wide selection of food offerings and seasonal products inspired by the market’s unique coffee heritage.

“Ahead of Colombia’s upcoming National Coffee Day, we are tremendously proud to bring the Starbucks Experience to the beautiful city of Cartagena. Starbucks has been serving some of Colombia’s finest coffees since our founding in 1971, and we continue to be the world’s largest purchaser of premium arabica Colombian beans,” stated Francisco Tosso, Country Manager of Alsea Colombia. “Our new café not only honors our longstanding commitment to the market but also our dedication to generating jobs here in the department of Bolívar,” Tosso added. &nbsp;

Starbucks designs its stores to enhance the human connection made over a cup of coffee and to reflect the communities they serve. The new Cartagena café features a simple, elegant design with a mix of both traditional and contemporary elements. The interior of the store is inviting and cozy, layered with a variety of textures and warmer tones, and the patio embodies the Third Place experience with a large canopy and comfortable seating to provide a welcoming gathering spot for customers.

The café also features a striking mural painted by Yurika, a Colombian artist known for his eclectic style and colorful street art designs. Yurika’s mural reflects the essence and colors of Cartagena – the rhythms of its cumbias and the beauty of its people. It also celebrates Colombia’s local flora and fauna, including the market’s beloved coffee trees.

Since Starbucks arrival to Colombia in 2014, the brand has been committed to delivering innovative, unique, and extraordinary experiences through coffee. Together with Alsea, Starbucks continues to expand in the market with 46 stores – in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, and now Cartagena – and over 520 Starbucks Colombia partners (employees) proudly wearing the green apron market wide.&nbsp;

To learn more about Starbucks Colombia, visit: <a href="https://www.starbucks.com.co/">https://www.starbucks.com.co/</a>.

Starbucks opens first café in Cartagena, Colombia - Historias-en

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Starbucks opens first café in Cartagena, Colombia

Marks fifth city entry and 46th store in the market; store design and beverage offerings celebrate Colombian coffee culture ahead of National Coffee Day. Cartagena ─ As part of its continued expansion plans in the market, Alsea – Starbucks operating licensee in Colombia – today announced the arrival of the company’s first café in Cartagena, […]

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-opens-first-cafe-in-cartagena-colombia/

Expanding on its 2020 commitment to support thousands of coffee growers across Colombia, Starbucks invests a total of USD 7.2 million in a coffee tree renovation program.

Bogotá, Colombia - Starbucks Coffee Company and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) today announced an expansion of their program to support Colombian coffee growers in the Starbucks C.A.F.E. Practices network, with Starbucks investing a total of USD 7.2 million to distribute more than 45 million coffee seedlings across Colombia by September 2023.

In 2020, through an agreement, <a href="https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2020/starbucks-and-the-colombian-coffee-growers-federation-donate-23-million-coffee-seedlings-to-thousands-of-coffee-growers-across-colombia/">Starbucks provided the FNC with a USD 3 million investment</a> to support a new coffee crop renovation program, with the goal of distributing 23 million coffee seedlings by 2023.

Within the first year of the program, more than 7 million coffee seedlings were distributed to Colombian farmers. Following this success, the 2022 project expansion includes an additional USD 4.2 million grant for an extra 22 million trees and will also support farmers with fertilizers during the early growth stage for every renovated tree.

This program builds on a ten-year partnership between Starbucks and the FNC and aims to help more than 12,000 farmers who participate in the C.A.F.E. Practices program under which Starbucks sources its coffee globally.

“In service of Starbucks aspiration to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all, we are pleased to strengthen our partnership with Colombian Coffee Growers Federation and increase our support of local coffee farmers through the expansion of this important tree renovation program,” said Tim Scharrer, managing director and vice president of Starbucks coffee and cocoa.

“Supplying farmers with healthy coffee seedlings and replacing old trees is a critical first step in the long-term success of our farmers and, ultimately, the Colombian coffee industry,” he added.

Working hand-in-hand with farmers in the field, the local Starbucks Farmer Support Center (located in Manizales) and the FNC, through its coffee growing communities, commercial and technical divisions and its office in Europe, will continue to oversee the project, which includes technical assistance, such as virtual training and field visits to farmers for planting of the seedlings, as well as recommendations for renovation of coffee plantations and verification of the trees established for the fertilization incentive.

“These programs confirm the great commitment of Starbucks to Colombian coffee growers’ well-being, coffee farming quality and sustainability, and environmental protection. Starbucks is a strategic partner of Colombian coffee and the FNC,” Roberto Vélez, the FNC CEO, acknowledged.

Additionally, Starbucks is partnering with the FNC to further implement sustainable farming practices in support of Starbucks coffee sustainability goals to reduce carbon emissions on coffee farms and save water in green processing. 

Through a separate USD 1.5 million sustainability grant, Starbucks is funding the purchase and installation of 200 ecological wet mills (across seven C.A.F.E. Practices-verified coffee supply chains), which use up to 80% less water compared to traditional technologies. The grant will also fund the collection of 2,400 soil samples to inform custom fertilization plans to support better soil health and rational fertilizer use.

Building on over five decades of sourcing, roasting and serving Colombian coffee worldwide, Starbucks is dedicated to working alongside Colombian coffee growers to support their well-being, their families, and their communities while ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee. As part of this effort, The Starbucks Foundation has <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2022/the-starbucks-foundation-commits-to-uplift-one-million-women-and-girls-in-origin-communities-by-2030/">provided funding to nonprofit organizations that support</a> Colombian women and girls in coffee-, tea- and cocoa-growing communities, including Cauca, Nariño and Tolima.

In 2012, Starbucks opened its fifth Farmer Support Center worldwide, located in Manizales, Colombia. To date, more than 110,000 Colombian coffee growers have benefited from its work through shared training, tools, and information to help them increase productivity and quality of coffee on their farms.

Starbucks opened its first retail store in Colombia in 2014. Currently there are 40 stores in four cities that feature high-quality, arabica coffee grown in Colombia.

“As we expand our footprint across Colombia and continue to bring the Starbucks Experience to more customers, we are tremendously proud of the Colombian arabica coffee served in our cafés,” said Francisco Tosso,&nbsp;Director&nbsp;of&nbsp;Starbucks Colombia. “Starbucks recognizes the importance of investing in Colombian farmers who make this all possible – and this ongoing work to support farmers also creates great pride for our partners and customers.”

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with over 34,000 stores around the globe, 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.

In 1927, Colombian coffee growers joined together to create an organization that would represent them nationally and internationally, work for their well-being and improve their quality of life. Today, the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation represents over 540,000 producers, providing them with public goods and services such as R&amp;D, technical assistance and development projects that help improve coffee quality and their living conditions.

Starbucks and FNC Partnership 2022_Photov2

Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation Strengthen Partnership, Setting New Goal to Distribute Over 45 Million Coffee Trees by 2023 - Historias-en

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Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation Strengthen Partnership, Setting New Goal to Distribute Over 45 Million Coffee Trees by 2023

Expanding on its 2020 commitment to support thousands of coffee growers across Colombia, Starbucks invests a total of USD 7.2 million in a coffee tree renovation program. Bogotá, Colombia &#8211; Starbucks Coffee Company and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) today announced an expansion of their program to support Colombian coffee growers in the Starbucks […]

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2022/starbucks-and-the-colombian-coffee-growers-federation-strengthen-partnership/

Barranquilla, COLOMBIA - Continuing&nbsp;its expansion plan in Colombia,&nbsp;Alsea&nbsp;– Starbucks&nbsp;Coffee Company&nbsp;retail licensee in the market and&nbsp;the&nbsp;leading restaurant operator in Latin America and Europe&nbsp;– today&nbsp;announced the arrival of&nbsp;two&nbsp;new&nbsp;Starbucks&nbsp;stores&nbsp;in Barranquilla, becoming&nbsp;the fourth city in the country where&nbsp;the company&nbsp;will have&nbsp;a&nbsp;presence.&nbsp;The&nbsp;two&nbsp;new&nbsp;Barranquilla&nbsp;stores&nbsp;build on the&nbsp;33&nbsp;Starbucks cafés&nbsp;in&nbsp;Colombia.&nbsp;The first&nbsp;store, opening its doors on November 18,&nbsp;will be located in&nbsp;the&nbsp;Alto Prado&nbsp;area,&nbsp;and the second&nbsp;store, opening on November&nbsp;27,&nbsp;will be located in&nbsp;Mallplaza.&nbsp;&nbsp;

These new&nbsp;cafes&nbsp;in Barranquilla&nbsp;highlight&nbsp;Starbucks commitment to being&nbsp;the&nbsp;“Third&nbsp;Place”&nbsp;for its&nbsp;customers:&nbsp;home&nbsp;being&nbsp;the first&nbsp;place, work the second&nbsp;place, and Starbucks stores the “Third Place,” where&nbsp;customers&nbsp;can&nbsp;have a good time,&nbsp;be with the people they&nbsp;care about&nbsp;or&nbsp;simply&nbsp;enjoy high quality&nbsp;100% Colombian&nbsp;coffee&nbsp;and a wide&nbsp;range&nbsp;of&nbsp;handcrafted beverages,&nbsp;seasonal products, and&nbsp;select&nbsp;snacks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The brand’s stores&nbsp;are spaces where&nbsp;customers&nbsp;can&nbsp;experience a strong feeling of belonging, identity and comfort.&nbsp;They have&nbsp;become a place where human connections&nbsp;are present in daily life,&nbsp;a place surrounded by&nbsp;genuine human warmth.&nbsp;“In the midst of a difficult year with the COVID-19 pandemic, we&nbsp;have decided to accelerate our expansion plan to&nbsp;contribute to the economic reactivation of Colombia and the Caribbean Coast.&nbsp;We are proud to bring&nbsp;Starbucks&nbsp;to&nbsp;Barranquilla, a&nbsp;key&nbsp;city&nbsp;in&nbsp;our quest to&nbsp;share&nbsp;the&nbsp;Starbucks Experience&nbsp;with Colombians,” said&nbsp;Francisco Tosso,&nbsp;Director&nbsp;of&nbsp;Alsea Colombia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since Starbucks arrived in Colombia in 2014 with&nbsp;the opening of its first store in&nbsp;Bogotá, the brand has reinforced its commitment to the market and Colombian coffee.&nbsp;Starbucks, in partnership with Alsea, now&nbsp;hosts&nbsp;35&nbsp;stores&nbsp;in&nbsp;four Colombian&nbsp;cities&nbsp;including&nbsp;Bogotá,&nbsp;Medellín, Cali, and Barranquilla.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“With our continued expansion across Colombia, we take our responsibility of being good neighbors&nbsp;very seriously,” added Tosso.&nbsp;“We want to be welcomed everywhere that we do business&nbsp;and&nbsp;positively contribute&nbsp;to&nbsp;our&nbsp;local&nbsp;communities, achieving Starbucks mission of&nbsp;inspiring&nbsp;and nurturing&nbsp;the human spirit&nbsp;–&nbsp;one person, one cup,&nbsp;and&nbsp;one neighborhood at a time.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tosso highlights that the Barranquilla stores honor Starbucks and Alsea’s commitment to the economic development of Colombia,&nbsp;support of the Colombian coffee industry and dedication to job creation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The&nbsp;Mallplaza&nbsp;family is proud to welcome Starbucks at our Buenavista complex,” said&nbsp;Juan Manuel Rengifo, Director&nbsp;of&nbsp;Mallplaza&nbsp;Buenavista. “Starbucks arrival is aligned with our goal of permanently amplifying our portfolio of&nbsp;premier&nbsp;brands for&nbsp;both residents&nbsp;and tourists of the Atlantic capital of&nbsp;Barranquilla.”&nbsp;

Store&nbsp;Addresses:&nbsp;

Starbucks Unveils Two New Stores in Barranquilla - Historias-en

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Starbucks Unveils Two New Stores in Barranquilla

The&nbsp;stores&nbsp;– opening within a week of&nbsp;each&nbsp;another –&nbsp;mark the&nbsp;brand’s fourth city&nbsp;entry&nbsp;in&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;and&nbsp;underscore&nbsp;the company’s&nbsp;commitment to&nbsp;job creation&nbsp;and growth in the market.&nbsp;&nbsp; Barranquilla, COLOMBIA &#8211; Continuing&nbsp;its expansion plan in Colombia,&nbsp;Alsea&nbsp;– Starbucks&nbsp;Coffee Company&nbsp;retail licensee in the market and&nbsp;the&nbsp;leading restaurant operator in Latin America and Europe&nbsp;– today&nbsp;announced the arrival of&nbsp;two&nbsp;new&nbsp;Starbucks&nbsp;stores&nbsp;in Barranquilla, becoming&nbsp;the fourth city in the country where&nbsp;the company&nbsp;will have&nbsp;a&nbsp;presence.&nbsp;The&nbsp;two&nbsp;new&nbsp;Barranquilla&nbsp;stores&nbsp;build on the&nbsp;33&nbsp;Starbucks […]

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https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2021/starbucks-unveils-two-new-stores-in-barranquilla/

Bogotá, Colombia - Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) announced a&nbsp;new program&nbsp;to support Colombian coffee growers&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Starbucks C.A.F.É. Practices&nbsp;network,&nbsp;through the donation and distribution&nbsp;of 23 million coffee seedlings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The program builds on a ten-year partnership between Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation and&nbsp;aims to help farmers improve both quality and profitability of their crops&nbsp;through coffee tree replenishment, with Starbucks contributing up to USD 3 million, positively impacting thousands of coffee-growing families in Colombia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Working hand-in-hand with farmers in the field, the local Starbucks Farmer Support Center (FSC) and the FNC representatives will oversee the project, which includes technical assistance, such as virtual training and field visits to farmers for planting of the seedlings and recommendations for renovation of coffee plantations.&nbsp;More than 12,000 Colombian coffee growers in&nbsp;11&nbsp;departments across the country will benefit from&nbsp;this project.&nbsp;

The allocation of the first batch of coffee seedlings will take place in early 2021 and will continue until the end of 2022 as part of the agreement&nbsp;between Starbucks and FNC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“At Starbucks, as we aspire to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all, we are dedicated to supporting our farmers to improve their lives and livelihoods, working hand-in-hand to address the most pressing challenges they face, while also protecting the environment,” said Michelle Burns,&nbsp;senior vice president&nbsp;Global Coffee, Tea and Cocoa at Starbucks. “This tree renovation project is a key pillar in the long-term prosperity of farmers, as replacing decaying or aging trees will help increase their productivity, quality and yield, thus increasing their earning potential. It also promotes environmental sustainability, ensuring farmers are best optimizing their existing land rather than relocating their farms and encroaching into forests.”&nbsp;

We aim to distribute&nbsp;seedlings&nbsp;to coffee farmers&nbsp;who are&nbsp;part of Starbucks C.A.F.E. Practices&nbsp;in Antioquia, Caldas, Cauca, Huila, Nariño, Norte de Santander, Santander, Quindío, Risaralda, Tolima, and Valle&nbsp;del Cauca.&nbsp;Starbucks C.A.F.E. Practices, is a verification program created in 2004 that measures coffee farms on economic, social and environmental criteria, all designed to promote transparent, profitable and sustainable coffee-growing practices while also protecting the well-being of coffee farmers, workers, their families and their communities.&nbsp;

Building on nearly five&nbsp;decades of sourcing,&nbsp;roasting and serving Colombian coffee worldwide, Starbucks has been working&nbsp;alongside&nbsp;Colombian coffee growers to support their well-being, their families, and their communities while ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee.&nbsp;In&nbsp;2012, the company opened&nbsp;its fifth&nbsp;Farmer Support Center&nbsp;worldwide,&nbsp;located in Manizales. To date, more than 110,000 Colombian coffee growers have benefited from the local Farmer Support Center’s work through trainings, tools, and information shared to help them increase productivity and quality of coffee on their farms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We know our Starbucks partners and customers care about where their coffee comes&nbsp;from," said Ricardo Rico, vice president and general manager of Starbucks, Latin America and Caribbean. "With Colombia as such an important coffee sourcing region, it is partnerships and initiatives like this that are contributing to the long-term success for both people and planet and help build pride and loyalty for the Starbucks brand.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Whether&nbsp;seeking to foster development of new coffee farms, helping farmers become more profitable or&nbsp;reducing coffee’s impact on the environment, Starbucks will continue using its scale for good as it works together with other organizations to&nbsp;work towards&nbsp;a sustainable&nbsp;coffee&nbsp;future for all.&nbsp;

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with over 32,000 stores around the globe, 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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) announced a&nbsp;new program&nbsp;to support Colombian coffee growers&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Starbucks C.A.F.É. Practices&nbsp;network,&nbsp;through the donation and distribution&nbsp;of 23 million coffee seedlings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation Donate 23 Million Coffee Seedlings to Thousands of Coffee Growers Across Colombia - Historias-en

Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation Donate 23 Million Coffee Seedlings to Thousands of Coffee Growers Across Colombia

Bogotá, Colombia &#8211; Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) announced a&nbsp;new program&nbsp;to support Colombian coffee growers&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Starbucks C.A.F.É. Practices&nbsp;network,&nbsp;through the donation and distribution&nbsp;of 23 million coffee seedlings.&nbsp;&nbsp; The program builds on a ten-year partnership between Starbucks and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation and&nbsp;aims to help farmers improve both quality and profitability of their […]

https://historias.starbucks.com/en-es/press/2020/starbucks-and-the-colombian-coffee-growers-federation-donate-23-million-coffee-seedlings-to-thousands-of-coffee-growers-across-colombia/