Starbucks announces opening of its first store in Brunei, the company's 64th global market, and its 100th store in Singapore

Nevin Barich

SEATTLE , February 14, 2014 (press release) – Company enters 64th country with first store in Brunei

Starbucks Singapore 100th store opening focused on job skills training

Starbucks Coffee Company (SBUX) today announced two significant milestones in Southeast Asia, opening its first store in Brunei – the company’s 64th global market – and its 100th store in Singapore, which will give people with autism the opportunity for meaningful employment and new lifelong skills.

“The Starbucks China and Asia Pacific region continues to be at the forefront of the company’s global expansion initiatives, and we continue to be humbled by the warm reception we receive from our customers,” said John Culver, group president, Starbucks Coffee China and Asia Pacific, Channel Development and Emerging Brands. “Our continued success in the region is because of the passionate partners (employees) - across what are now 15 markets in the region - who deliver the unique Starbucks Experience to our customers every day. Those moments of connection between the barista and customer are just as important with the opening of our first store in Brunei and the 100th store in Singapore.”

Brunei is Starbucks 64th Market Globally

Starbucks will open its first store in Brunei on February 16 at one of the most popular shopping destinations in the country, Mabohai Mall. This milestone marks the company’s 15th market in its China and Asia Pacific region and its 64th market globally.

The first Brunei Starbucks® store has been designed to reflect Starbucks 43-year coffee heritage, while embracing the country’s distinctive local traditions and culture. Key features in this magnificent space include a ‘slow bar’ which allows customers to enjoy their favorite Starbucks® whole bean coffee, using the traditional Pour-Over brewing method, and a floor-to-ceiling glass window that brings the tranquility of the nearby Tasek Lama Recreational Park into the store. In addition, this store features locally-sourced furnishings, including traditional baskets from the local markets which have been repurposed as decorative artwork within the store.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Starbucks Experience to customers in Brunei, and are confident that our stores will become a gathering place where our customers can connect with family and friends,” said Jeff Hansberry, president, Starbucks China and Asia Pacific.

Singapore 100th Store Opening

As Starbucks continues its ambitious growth momentum across the China and Asia Pacific region, it is committed to growing through a locally-relevant and community-focused approach. While the 100th store in Singapore is testament to Starbucks continued market leadership, it also serves to deepen the brand’s relationship with the neighborhood that it serves.

Starbucks nearly decade-long alliance with the Autism Resource Centre (Singapore) provides an opportunity for members of the community to receive the necessary job training and support that enable people with autism to join the workforce and lead more independent lifestyles. At the time of the store opening, six partners with autism have been hired to work at the store, with the goal to expand the relationship with the Autism Resource Centre in the coming years.

“Over our 43-year history, Starbucks has strived to be a different kind of company; one that balances benevolence with performance. The opening of 100th store in Singapore is a reflection of this ongoing commitment in collaboration with Singapore’s Autism Resource Centre,” said Hansberry. “This store not only showcases coffee leadership, but also provides an opportunity for our partners to engage in a program which will be a positive force for change in the community it serves. I am very proud to commemorate this milestone opening and thank Singapore customers for their support over the past 17 years.”

The company is on track to expand its footprint by adding approximately 750 stores across Starbucks China and Asia Pacific region this year. Southeast Asia will play a significant role in this growth, driven both within existing markets – including Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines – as well as new markets such as Brunei.

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with 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. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at www.starbucks.com. Members of the media can engage with Starbucks online at news.starbucks.com or though Twitter at @StarbucksNews.

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