Starbucks: History, Growth & Global Expansion

If you’ve ever wondered how Starbucks went from a single Seattle coffee bean store to a 13,000-location global brand, this timeline lays out every major milestone—from its 1971 roots to instant coffee success and expansion into China.

In short: Starbucks was founded in 1971 in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, grew under Howard Schultz after 1987, went public in 1992, launched instant Via in 2009, and now operates over 13,000 stores in 39 countries with 145,000 employees.

The Origins: 1971–1987

Starbucks Coffee Company was established in 1971 in Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Initially, it focused solely on selling high-quality coffee beans and brewing equipment—not brewed drinks. The brand name was inspired by the classic novel Moby-Dick, reflecting maritime heritage and the seaport’s character.

By 1982, Howard Schultz joined Starbucks as director of retail operations and marketing. His vision transformed the company’s direction toward becoming a café-style coffee retailer.

Transformation Under Howard Schultz: 1987–1992

In 1987, Schultz acquired Starbucks and opened the first location serving both drip coffee and espresso-based drinks. This marked the shift to the “third place” concept—a community hub between home and work. He became chairman, leading the company through rapid changes.

By June 1992, Starbucks had gone public on the NASDAQ stock exchange. This milestone accelerated growth and global brand recognition, laying the foundation for international expansion.

Global Expansion & Innovations: 1992–2009

As of the latest data, Starbucks operates over 13,000 stores across 39 countries, employing 145,000 people. The brand offers more than 30 premium coffee bean varieties, handcrafted espresso drinks, hot and cold beverages, fresh pastries, and a wide range of coffee accessories like machines and cups.

In 2009, Starbucks launched Starbucks Via, an instant coffee product that achieved $100 million in global sales within just 10 months and was distributed through over 40,000 retail points. This innovation demonstrated the company’s ability to adapt to changing consumer needs.

Entry into Greater China & Corporate Responsibility

Since entering the Chinese market in 1998, Starbucks has opened more than 430 stores across Greater China, including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan—with approximately 200 locations on the Chinese mainland.

In September 2005, the company invested 40 million RMB (about $5 million) in the Starbucks China Education Project to improve education, particularly in western rural regions, starting with the “Western Teachers Training Program” in partnership with the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation. Also in 2005, Starbucks established its Greater China headquarters in Shanghai to oversee strategy, market development, and operations.

The brand is especially popular among students and urban professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Alongside coffee, it serves tea (hot and iced), pies, cakes, and is often found in non-traditional retail locations such as supermarkets and bookstores—though Starbucks does not own those venues.

Financial Milestones

During the third quarter of the 2001 fiscal year ending July 3, 2001, Starbucks reported a profit of $279.1 million, or 36 cents per share. This compared to $207.9 million, or 27 cents per share, in the same period the previous year (including a 2-cent per share restructuring charge).

Today, the company continues to emphasize delivering high-quality coffee and the signature “Starbucks Experience,” creating a welcoming “third place” environment in stores worldwide. It also engages in ongoing corporate social responsibility efforts, supporting environmental sustainability, partners, and coffee farmers.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Starbucks founded?

Starbucks was founded in 1971 in Seattle’s Pike Place Market. It originally sold coffee beans and equipment, not brewed coffee.

Who founded Starbucks?

Starbucks was founded by three partners in 1971, but Howard Schultz joined in 1982 and acquired the company in 1987, leading its transformation into a café chain.

When did Starbucks go public?

Starbucks went public in June 1992 on the NASDAQ stock exchange, which helped accelerate its growth and global expansion.

What is Starbucks Via?

Starbucks Via is an instant coffee product launched in 2009. It reached $100 million in global sales within 10 months and is available in over 40,000 retail locations.

How many Starbucks stores are there globally?

Starbucks operates over 13,000 stores in 39 countries, employing around 145,000 people.

When did Starbucks enter China?

Starbucks entered the Chinese market in 1998 and has since opened more than 430 stores in Greater China, including around 200 on the Chinese mainland.

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