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Starbucks to rely on China, shed trans fats in N. Amer.

SEATTLE Starbucks Corp. executives have forecast that about 20 percent of its international growth will occur in China this year, which has the potential for more than 200 million customers. —

There already are more than 500 Starbucks Coffee outlets in China, about 300 of which have opened in the past two years, and Martin Coles, president of Starbucks’ international division, told a telephone conference of financial analysts that the chain would add 200 more there by 2008. —

Chairman Howard Schultz, emphasizing Starbucks’ current presence in Beijing and 17 provinces, said he anticipates the brand will continue to do well in Hong Kong and gain strength in Taiwan. —

“We are dreaming very big in China,” he said. —

Separately, Starbucks plans to eliminate by year-end artificial trans fats from foods and beverages sold in coffeehouses operated by the company and its licensees in the continental United States, Alaska and Canada. Starbucks said it had made the decision after eliciting opinions from recognized health and nutrition experts. —

Starbucks and its licensees operate 13,728 units worldwide. —

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