Understanding the captivating story of coffee, from the humble coffee bean to the rich aroma of a perfectly brewed cup, was a reality for 100 partners from Asia Pacific and Japan who had the opportunity to participate in the Sumatra Origin Experience, spread across two waves.

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Since the inception of the Origin Experience program in 2010, more than 4,000 partners from across the world have embarked on the transformative bean-to-cup coffee journey. Destinations like <a href="https://coffeeexperiences.starbucks.com/">Costa Rica</a>, Indonesia, and <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/people-in-coffee/2023/photo-essay-partners-visit-rwanda-for-the-2023-origin-experience/">Rwanda </a>have been explored by these partners, who have had the privilege of delving into the remarkable journey of Starbucks coffee. This season, 100 partners from Asia Pacific and Japan immersed themselves in the Sumatra Origin Experience.

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During the Origin Experience, partners actively engage in the coffee production process. They visit smallholder coffee farms, meet the families who tend and grow the coffee trees, and spend time in the fields, harvesting ripe coffee cherries and planting trees. Ita Daud, the general manager of the Sumatra Farmer Support Centre, highlighted how this hands-on work connects partners to the reality of coffee production. "Our partners realize that we need to harvest coffee cherry by cherry," she explained. "One shot of espresso is 20 hand-picked cherries, to hold that in your hand and understand that every cup started like that is very humbling."

Another significant moment during the Origin Experience is the planting of a tree. Each partner has the opportunity to plant a tree and leave a message for future generations. This tree planting allows partners to directly contribute to a more sustainable future for coffee. By planting these trees, partners gain a deeper appreciation for the dedicated work of the Sumatran coffee farmers who tend to the coffee trees day-in and day-out. As Liana, a store manager from the New Zealand market shared, "Planting that tree was a deeply meaningful experience. It's a tangible way for Starbucks to invest in the future of coffee and for us as partners to better understand the realities faced by the coffee farming communities we work with."

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Continuing the journey into the heart of Berastagi, partners were welcomed by the local community and had the opportunity to hear from women and girls who are participants in a Mercy Corps project supported by The Starbucks Foundation. ST, a senior manager from the Malaysia Market Support Centre, shared, "Understanding the challenges that face our coffee farming communities and seeing the impact Starbucks has, is incredibly powerful. I met women and girls whose lives have been improved through our partnership with local organizations. Simple things like access to clean water and educational opportunities are making such a difference."

The final day of the trip see partner visit the<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2018/starbucks-farmer-support-centers/"> Starbucks Farmer Support Center</a> to witness firsthand the efforts made by Starbucks to create a sustainable future for coffee. Captain, a store manager from Starbucks Korea, found the Origin Experience to be an opportunity to deepen his understanding of Starbucks' commitment. "It's amazing to see the investment and care that Starbucks puts into every aspect of the coffee journey, from growing and giving away new coffee tree varietals to working one-on-one with farmers in the field. This trip has deepened my appreciation for the work Starbucks does to ensure a sustainable future for coffee."

The Sumatra Origin Experience continues to be a transformative journey for Starbucks partners from Asia Pacific and around the world. Through this immersive experience, partners gain a deeper understanding of the coffee supply chain and the dedication required to produce high-quality coffee sustainably. By connecting with the farmers, experiencing the land, and understanding the challenges faced by the coffee industry and Starbucks commitment to the future of coffee, partners return home with a renewed sense of purpose and a promise to sharing their knowledge and passion with customers.

Coffee and Connections at the Starbucks Origin Experience 2024 in Sumatra : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks Stories Asia

Coffee and Connections at the Starbucks Origin Experience 2024 in Sumatra

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2024/coffee-and-connections-at-the-origin-experience-2024-in-sumatra/

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Donation reinforces company’s commitment to positively contribute to communities as the brand celebrates 22 years in the market

The Starbucks Foundation and Starbucks licensee partner PT Sari Coffee Indonesia announced a joint donation of IDR 5 billion (approximately US$314,000) to World Central Kitchen to enable the nonprofit to provide over 100,000 meals to people in Gaza.

Celebrating its 22nd anniversary in Indonesia, the donation further underscores the company’s commitment to the community. This donation builds on the US $3 million contribution made by The Starbucks Foundation and Alshaya Starbucks to <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/the-starbucks-foundation-and-alshaya-starbucks-are-committed-to-providing-humanitarian-aid-in-gaza/">World Central Kitchen</a> earlier this year.

“In response to the situation in Gaza, we are extending our support to the World Central Kitchen, which is at the forefront of responding to the hunger crisis and providing vital food aid to people in need. Our philanthropic support together with The Starbucks Foundation exemplifies our enduring mission to strengthen humanity, one that has formed the cornerstone of our journey over the past 22 years in Indonesia,” said Anthony Mc Evoy, leader of PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. He also added, “Our Indonesian partners (employees) furthermore are committed to making a collective donation in the month of May. Lastly, we will continue to support this initiative by giving a percentage of sales of our handcrafted beverages and whole bean coffee sourced from Sumatra. Efforts like these demonstrate and highlight how we are working to bring our promises to life.”

Established in 1997, The Starbucks Foundation is the company’s global charitable arm that strives to positively impact people and communities by supporting nonprofit organizations in partnership with Starbucks partners, licensee partners, and others. A primary disaster relief partner of The Starbucks Foundation since 2019, World Central Kitchen has spearheaded disaster relief efforts, delivering food aid to impacted communities around the world, including Indonesia.

“Starbucks has always stood for more than just coffee. Reaffirming our promise of contributing positively, we’re doing our part to provide humanitarian relief,” said Emmy Kan, senior vice president and president of Starbucks Asia Pacific.

Tunde Wackman, Chief Development Officer from World Central Kitchen, added, “We are grateful for the joint donation from Starbucks Indonesia and The Starbucks Foundation, a longtime supporter of our humanitarian efforts. The donation will go a long way in providing immediate relief for people in dire need in Gaza, while enabling us to continue delivering aid to impacted communities across the world.”&nbsp;

Through a long-standing partnership with PT Sari Coffee Indonesia since 2002, Starbucks now operates over 580 stores in Indonesia with nearly 5,400 partners who proudly wear the green apron. Over its 22-year journey, Starbucks Indonesia has spearheaded meaningful initiatives that uplift local communities. This includes the Starbucks Creative Youth Entrepreneurship Program created in partnership with Prestasi Junior Indonesia which empowers youth through experiential learning in entrepreneurship; the opening of a Signing Store dedicated to creating equal opportunities for the local Deaf and hard of hearing community; and the construction of AquaTowers with Planet Water Foundation to provide access to safe drinking water and handwashing stations as well as hygiene education to communities in need.

For more than five decades, Starbucks has been sourcing Indonesian coffee and is one of the country’s largest buyers of Arabica coffee, contributing to the local economy and farming communities. In 2015, it opened its Farmer Support Center in North Sumatra, where Starbucks agronomists work closely with coffee farmers to ensure sustainable farming practices and improve the resilience, quality, and size of their harvests.&nbsp; Starbucks Indonesia also has donated over 500,000 coffee tree seeds since 2017 in Sumatra and West Java. In addition, as part of its goal to reach 1 million women in coffee by 2030, The Starbucks Foundation has supported several projects that connect women in coffee-growing communities across Indonesia to leadership training, water and sanitation, and economic opportunities.

To donate to World Central Kitchen, please visit the <a href="https://donate.wck.org/give/580081/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=starbucksstories">World Central Kitchen donation website</a>.&nbsp;

The Starbucks Foundation and Starbucks Indonesia announce a joint donation to provide humanitarian aid in Gaza : Starbucks Stories Asia

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The Starbucks Foundation and Starbucks Indonesia announce a joint donation to provide humanitarian aid in Gaza

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2024/the-starbucks-foundation-and-starbucks-indonesia-announce-a-joint-donation-to-provide-humanitarian-aid-in-gaza/

International Coffee Day marks a moment for all coffee lovers to come together, celebrate, learn about, and be inspired by this beloved beverage.

Since it’s the connections between our partners, customers and communities that make this beverage so special, International Coffee Day is the perfect time to learn more about the personal stories behind our partners’ coffee experiences.

Kris Benny Sinuraya, Indonesia

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Coffee has been part of Kris Benny Sinuraya’s life for as long as he can remember. Growing up in a coffee farming family in Medan, Sumatra, it’s no surprise that coffee became his passion – one that has only grown since becoming a Starbucks partner.

Now a district coffee master and store manager at the Williem Iskandar Medan store, Kris Benny’s Starbucks career has been full of amazing moments, such as joining 2019’s Sumatra Origin Experience trip – an eye-opening coffee farm experience reserved for Starbucks partners to understand the origin and journey of Starbucks coffee beans. During this trip, he got the chance to visit the Starbucks Farmer Support Center in his home region. “I learned so much and jumped right in to see how the coffee journey happens from seed to cup,” he says. “When the trip finished, I immediately discussed with my family how to implement that knowledge on our coffee farm.”

Beyond that, Kris Benny believes that sharing his knowledge with Starbucks customers and partners is also vital to enhancing the coffee experience. “Ultimately, my goal is to make coffee more than just a daily routine; it’s about a culture of appreciation and connection through this beloved beverage.” For him, that has involved spearheading initiatives like creating coffee seminars and holding talks with the local community.

In that vein, Kris Benny hopes to continue making a difference to the people and future of coffee. “I will advocate for fair wages and better living conditions for coffee farmers and their communities,” he explains. “I also want to share my knowledge about coffee origins, brewing methods and the importance of quality, empowering consumers to make informed choices and appreciate the nuances of coffee. I hope to contribute to a more sustainable, ethical, and inclusive coffee culture that positively impacts both individuals and coffee-producing communities worldwide.”

Vennibell Jotiol, Malaysia

For Vennibell Jotiol, coffee has been “an amazing journey of learning and growth”.

Now a shift manager and coffee master at George Town’s Signing Store Burmah Road, <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2019/career-opportunities-expand-in-malaysia-with-opening-of-new-starbucks-signing-store-in-penang/">Starbucks’ first Signing Store in Penang</a>, Vennibell recalls being shy upon first starting her Starbucks’ journey. However, her confidence soon mounted thanks to the support of her Starbucks partners, who “provided encouragement, mentorship, and a sense of belonging that helped me believe in myself and my abilities”.

Similarly, practicing tasks such as preparing coffees and interacting with customers daily when she was a barista, followed by expanding her knowledge through the coffee master program, further boosted her confidence and expertise. These days she finds herself guiding partners to follow in her footsteps of achieving coffee master status – offering knowledge, training, and support to “create an environment where everyone can grow and develop their coffee skills to the fullest”.

“Coffee has provided me with a means to engage more deeply with both our partners and customers,” Vennibell adds. “I’ve been able to foster stronger connections, meaningful conversations and build a sense of community among us.”

Empowering Deaf partners like herself is a cause particularly close to Vennibell’s heart and she aims to create more opportunities for Deaf partners to enter coffee competitions and showcase their skills to the public. “I hope to break down barriers and stereotypes while fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities,” she explains.

While she’s now in a position to teach others, Vennibell is eager to continue learning and hopes to achieve advanced coffee master certification across various brewing methods. She aspires to then take that knowledge to educate even more Deaf individuals about coffee, enabling them to receive the same level of teaching as hearing individuals. “My goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their hearing ability, can fully appreciate and excel in the world of coffee.”

Hangeul Lee, South Korea

“My role in coffee is like a tour guide,” Hangeul Lee enthuses. “I taste various kinds and study coffee from countries all over the world, then I share those experiences with customers. Although I haven’t visited those countries in person, I feel like I’m making a trip there through coffee.”

A shift supervisor and coffee master at <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2021/beautiful-new-starbucks-store-opens-in-south-korea/">Seoul’s Byuldabang store</a> , Hangeul loves exploring the diversity of coffee and passing that knowledge onto customers. Part of delving deeper into coffee’s origins for her coffee master certification meant discovering more about ethical sourcing – information that she is proud to share with Starbucks’ drinkers. “Customers don’t always know how we harvest coffee and how it’s grown, but I want to let them know the importance of fair trade, so that we can be fair to both coffee farms and farmers and help them raise their quality of life.”

Given coffee’s popularity in South Korea – the country ranks second highest in the world for coffee consumption – Hangeul is thrilled to see other sustainable initiatives being adopted by her community. She highlights Starbucks’ introduction of reusable cup programs in South Korea, including at her own Byuldabang branch, with a discount or bonus star offered to customers who bring their own cups.

“Creating eco-friendly stores informs customers about sustainability and resilient coffee supplies,” Hangeul explains. “It provides an option to participate in helping the environment while buying a cup of coffee.”

Tuxsaporn Wattanayotin, Thailand

“It’s not just coffee we serve every day,” says Tuxsaporn Wattanayotin. “Our coffee is something that connects people.”

Having been with Starbucks for 11 years, Tuxsaporn is now an assistant store manager at Chiang Mai’s Ruamchok Mall branch and coffee master who finished runner-up in 2022’s Asia-Pacific Coffee Story Championship. She is passionate about telling customers the story behind their cup of coffee “to inspire them and make them appreciate the people behind it”.

Having grown up in a coffee producing area, she is especially eager to showcase “another side of the story”, telling customers about the farmers who dedicate their lives to growing and developing coffee.

While describing herself as shy, Tuxsaporn has seen her confidence grow through these storytelling moments, saying “I can make a lot of friends through coffee!” She fondly remembers one of her first coffee tastings with a customer, where she deliberately chose to showcase Starbucks’ Muan Jai Blend, which is produced in the area where she grew up.

After relating the farmers’ hard work and how profits from the blend improved their quality of life, she describes how her customer “took a sip and said it was the best cup of coffee they’d ever had”. She continues, “They said it was because the story I told them made the coffee more delicious – and to keep telling this to other customers so they’d know that good coffee makes good things happen for the people that grow it”.

It's this connection between herself, coffee farmers, and customers that Tuxsaporn values most of all. “When customers hear these stories, it’s not just about the taste of the coffee – I can feel the happiness in their hearts.”

Our Journeys Through Coffee: Celebrate International Coffee Day 2023 with four of our Asia-Pacific Partners : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Our Journeys Through Coffee: Celebrate International Coffee Day 2023 with four of our Asia-Pacific Partners

International Coffee Day marks a moment for all coffee lovers to come together, celebrate, learn about, and be inspired by this beloved beverage. Learn more about the personal stories behind our partners’ coffee experiences.

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2023/our-journeys-through-coffee-celebrate-international-coffee-day-2023-with-four-of-our-asia-pacific-partners/

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 second year of the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/global-community-impact-grants/">Global Community Impact Grants</a> program, The Starbucks Foundation awarded grants to more than 90 nonprofits, all nominated by Starbucks international licensees, and will reach communities in 46 markets. Between grants and co-investment from international licensees, more than $3.8 million was awarded in 2023 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 Asia Pacific, the Foundation awarded 29 grants across 14 markets for causes ranging from youth empowerment and hunger relief, to promoting economic opportunity to workforce development, and social services. Grants were awarded to nonprofit organizations in Australia, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/global-community-impact-grants/">Learn more</a> about the program and organizations we support in Asia Pacific and across the globe. Highlights from select grantees in Asia Pacific include:

ChildFund Korea, South Korea The Starbucks Youth Leadership Program, supported by Starbucks Korea’s first Community Store, is a holistic 4-year program that partners with ChildFund Korea to offer academic scholarships through college graduation. The program also provides a unique curriculum focused on building business acumen, collaborative communications, and social consciousness as part of its aim to prepare young people from disadvantaged backgrounds for educational and career opportunities in Korea’s economy.

 With additional support from The Starbucks Foundation, over 80 students have been supported through the program and new students will be selected in May 2023. The most recent Global Community Impact Grant will support the current group of students to gain business development skills and other training for career development over the coming year.

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Gawad Kalinga, Philippines As part of the Global Community Impact Grants, The Starbucks Foundation awarded a $50,000 grant to Gawad Kalinga’s Kusina ng Kalinga in April 2022 supporting nutrition for 600 youth in two communities in Quezon City and Laguna, as well as providing nutrition education and support for building and maintaining community vegetable gardens. Starbucks Philippines donated an additional $25,000 each to the Philippine FoodBank Foundation and Gawad Kalinga to expand its hunger relief programs in 2023 in the Visayas region. The most recent Global Community Impact Grant from The Starbucks Foundation will enable Gawad Kalinga to provide nutritious meals to an additional 1,200 children, host family health and nutrition educational workshops, and train 30 Community Food Farmers to build vegetable gardens.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Indonesia

In September 2022, The Starbucks Foundation and Starbucks Indonesia partnered with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in Bojong Koneng village in Bogor district, West Java, Indonesia. Over 70 Starbucks Indonesia partners (employees) and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, helped to build 21 toilets to support the wellbeing, health, and resilience of this rural community. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia is a long-time partner on disaster relief. Most recently, The Starbucks Foundation supported rebuilding efforts in Cianjur West Java, after an earthquake struck in November 2022. This included providing temporary shelter to families, as well as latrines for impacted communities. The most recent Global Community Impact Grant will help Habitat for Humanity improve wellbeing, health status, and resiliency of the Karawang community in West Java through safe and decent housing and household WASH improvements for low-income families. 

Scholars of Sustenance Foundation (SOS), Thailand The Scholars of Sustenance Foundation’s Rescue Kitchen provided more than 430,000 meals to communities from October 2022 to March 2023, with the support of a Global Community Impact Grant. Fifty partners assisted in these efforts by preparing meals for Klong Ladpachee and Wat Ampawa communities. The most recent Global Community Impact Grant will further expand the Rescue Kitchen’s network through a “cooking hero” training for community volunteers that will increase community access to nutritious food. The Global Community Impact Grant complements Starbucks Thailand’s FoodShare program which has donated more than 6,500 kilograms of surplus food, representing nearly 28,000 meals to communities in need, in January to March 2023.

Supporting Economic Opportunity, Youth Workforce Development, Hunger Relief and Social Services in Asia Pacific : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Supporting Economic Opportunity, Youth Workforce Development, Hunger Relief and Social Services in Asia Pacific

In Asia Pacific, the Starbucks Foundation awarded 21 grants across 12 markets for causes ranging from youth empowerment and hunger relief to promoting economic opportunity to workforce development to hunger relief to social services.

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2023/asia-pacific-global-community-impact-grants/

The store in Jakarta is the company’s 17th Signing Store globally creating equal opportunities for the local Deaf and hard of hearing community

Tomorrow, Starbucks Indonesia will open its first Signing Store dedicated to the Deaf, hard of hearing, and sign language communities in Jakarta, Indonesia. Designed with inclusivity and accessibility at its core, customers at the Starbucks Tata Puri Community Store will be served by Deaf and hard of hearing baristas who proudly wear the green apron. The store is located on Jl. Tanjung Karang No.3 Kebon Melati in Central Jakarta.

Creating Equal Opportunities and an Inclusive Customer Experience

The Starbucks Tata Puri Community Store provides a third place where all customers, including the Deaf and hard of hearing community can gather, socialize, and nurture human connections. Deaf baristas will wear green aprons with the company’s name, Starbucks, embroidered in sign language. Partners (employees) who can use Bisindo sign language will wear an “I Sign” pin. Customers also will be able order beverages and food using a writing tablet.

The store also offers a community area for members of the Deaf community to support and conduct programs from Gerkatin (Gerakan untuk Kesejahteraan Tunarungu Indonesia) and Pusbisindo (Pusat Bahasa Isyarat Indonesia) – two organizations Starbucks has partnered with in Indonesia to support sign language education for the broader community. To encourage a culture of human connections through the celebration of Deaf culture and sign language, the store will also host sign language lessons and coffee workshops in sign language.

"The inauguration of the Signing Store is a major achievement for Starbucks Indonesia as it celebrates its 20th anniversary in the market,” said Anthony McEvoy, leader of PT Sari Coffee Indonesia, Starbucks licensee partner in Indonesia. "The Signing Store demonstrates our commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse work environment, and to widening access to all communities.”

“We were delighted to see the enthusiasm from the Deaf and hard of hearing community when we opened applications. More than 150 people applied from across the country. The baristas who have been selected are a diverse group, including a former swimming para-athlete and fashion models,” said Anastasia Dwiyani, senior general manager of Human Capital at PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. “As with all our partners, we are excited to help nurture their talent and advance career opportunities.”

The Spirit of the Deaf Community Decorates All Corners of the Store

United by the culture of sign language, this store is filled with design elements that bring communities together. The signature siren logo with Bisindo is immediately visible as customers pass the busy main road, Sudirman Street. With the Starbucks® logo with Bisindo above the main door, customers are greeted by a mural wall as soon as they enter the store and a collection of exclusive merchandise - clear cup tumblers, stainless-steel tumblers and mugs. The elongated oval shape community table, and circle details on the floor, also symbolize the store that unites the community. The most notable feature is a 4m high mural painting by Deaf artist, Indira Natalia, which extends more than 11m outside the store, depicting the warm and welcoming Starbucks experience. The signature artwork can be seen by passersby in the street.

“As a Deaf artist, I am so proud to share my art with customers and partners at Indonesia’s first Signing Store. While brainstorming, I realized that Starbucks has always strived to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and belongs – and the inspiration for my work came from that, by presenting many different figures (communities) united by sign language and Starbucks,” says Indira. “Art can break boundaries and unite people, just like the connection people share when they drink coffee. There are many ways to communicate and connect people from diverse backgrounds, and at Starbucks, coffee makes this happen.”

Since opening its first store in Plaza Indonesia 20 years ago, Starbucks has expanded to 44 cities in Indonesia, with more than 4,300 partners now proudly wearing the green apron. In its mission to make a difference in the lives of those connected with Starbucks, the company strives to create a positive impact in the communities it serves. In 2020, Starbucks opened the first Community Store in the Tanah Abang neighborhood of Jakarta, to create educational opportunities for youth in Tanah Abang.

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Starbucks Indonesia opens first Signing Store : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks Indonesia opens first Signing Store

The store in Jakarta is the company’s 17th Signing Store globally creating equal opportunities for the local Deaf and hard of hearing community.

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/starbucks-indonesia-opens-first-signing-store/

Starbucks today celebrated the opening of its 500th&nbsp;store in Indonesia, located at Jalan Gatsu Mudu Taki, North Kuta, Bali. The store opening also marks the 55th drive-thru location in the market, as it looks to provide safe, familiar and convenient customer experiences.&nbsp;

“The opening of our 500th store in Indonesia is a significant milestone for Starbucks,” said Anthony McEvoy, leader of PT Sari Coffee Indonesia (SCI). “This is a proud moment for all our partners wearing the green apron and I am excited to celebrate this achievement with them. We attribute our success to the dedication and passion of our partners, who deliver the beloved Starbucks Experience to our customers every day.”

In appreciation of this momentous store opening, Michael Conway, group president, Starbucks International and Channel Development was present at the ceremonial store opening event.&nbsp;

“Indonesia has played an important role in Starbucks heritage as one of the world’s leading coffee growing regions through today as we continue to deliver the iconic experience across the market,” said Michael Conway, group president, International and Channel Development. “Since entering the market 20 years ago, Indonesia has become the 10th largest market globally for Starbucks and we remain committed to serving more customers and communities for the long-term.”

Building on its third-place in-store experience, the design of this special store is deeply inspired by Balinese architecture, which emphasizes on wood elements. Locally-inspired roofing and columns mirror the store’s surroundings, while the façade uses local, natural materials. The interior of the store features natural wood, vibrant rattan lighting, and an artwork featuring a wood carving of the Starbucks siren to create a local and authentic Starbucks Experience.

Since opening its first store 20-years ago in Indonesia, today, the company offers many ways for customers to connect with their family and friends over a high-quality cup of Starbucks coffee. This includes drive-thru locations which were introduced in 2019 for an easy and convenient way for customers to enjoy their Starbucks beverage on-the-go; the elevated, coffee forward Starbucks Reserve™ stores such as the store at Margocity Depok, the 17th Starbucks Reserve store in the market; the one-of-a-kind Starbucks Dewata Coffee Sanctuary with a fully-immersive bean to cup experience; and the new Coffee Experience Center that was opened within the Starbucks Dewata complex to provide homage to Indonesia’s rich coffee heritage earlier this year.

In its mission to make difference in the lives of the people who connect with Starbucks, the company strives to create a positive impact in the communities it serves. In 2020, Starbucks opened the first Community Store in the Tanah Abang neighborhood of Jakarta, to create educational opportunities for youth in Tanah Abang, followed by the Starbucks Creative Youth Entrepreneurship Program (SCYEP) in support of youth empowerment.

In collaboration with the Farmers Support Center in Berastagi, North Sumatra, more than 500,000 coffee seeds have been donated to coffee farmers through the Art in the Cup program. And in appreciation of frontline responders of the Covid-19 outbreak, over 50,000 cups of beverages have been donated to hospitals and vaccination centers.

Since the opening of the first store at Plaza Indonesia 20 years ago, Starbucks Indonesia has expanded to 36 cities, with more than 4,300 partners proudly wearing the green apron.

Starbucks Celebrates 500th Store in Indonesia : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks Celebrates 500th Store in Indonesia

Starbucks today celebrated the opening of its 500th store in Indonesia, located at Jalan Gatsu Mudu Taki, North Kuta, Bali. The store opening also marks the 55th drive-thru location in the market, as it looks to provide safe, familiar and convenient customer experiences. 

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https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/starbucks-celebrates-its-500th-store-in-indonesia-celebrates-20-years-in-indonesia/

Since first opening its doors, Starbucks Indonesia has strived to be a company with partners (employees), customers and coffee at its core. The company nurtures the human connection and builds community by offering a third place with a culture of warmth where everyone is welcomed. To celebrate its 20-year anniversary in the market, Starbucks Indonesia reaffirmed its long-commitment to support the farming community in Indonesia.

“I am proud of the remarkable achievements we have accomplished together over the last 20 years with our partners and customers in pursuing our commitment to our three core pillars – People, Planet, Coffee. We want to dedicate this milestone to our partners and customers who have been on this journey with us since the beginning as we aspire to be a people and planet positive company,” said Anthony McEvoy, leader of PT Sari Coffee Indonesia (SCI).&nbsp; “I look forward to the future of Starbucks in Indonesia as we continue to create new connections and positive impact for our customers and community.”

To continue to support the future of coffee, Starbucks Indonesia reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the Indonesian coffee community by donating 40,000 coffee seeds to farmers in Sumatra. Since 2017, 500,000 coffee seeds have been donated through the Art in the Cup program, in collaboration with the Farmers Support Center in Berastagi, North Sumatra.

Starbucks Indonesia’s Commitment to People, Planet, and Coffee

From opening its first store at Plaza Indonesia in 2002, Starbucks Indonesia has now grown to more than 4,000 partners in more than 480 stores in 36 cities, bringing the Starbucks Experience to customers across Indonesia.

Creating positive impact in the communities it serves, from partners to coffee farmers to customers in the stores and beyond, here are some highlights of the meaningful initiatives Starbucks Indonesia has created:

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In celebration of the 20th anniversary, the limited-time Birthday Cake Frappuccino® was available at all stores during the anniversary week. Limited edition anniversary tumbler and eco-bags are also specially curated and available for sale until stocks last.

Starbucks celebrates 20 years in Indonesia by reinforcing its commitments to people, planet and coffee : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks celebrates 20 years in Indonesia by reinforcing its commitments to people, planet and coffee

Since first opening its doors, Starbucks Indonesia has strived to be a company with partners (employees), customers and coffee at its core. The company nurtures the human connection and builds community by offering a third place with a culture of warmth where everyone is welcomed. To celebrate its 20-year anniversary in the market, Starbucks Indonesia […]

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https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/starbucks-celebrates-20-years-in-indonesia-by-reinforcing-its-commitments-to-people-planet-and-coffee/

Over the last four years, The Starbucks Foundation has partnered with nonprofit organizations around the world to support 250,000 women&nbsp;and girls in coffee-, tea- and cocoa-growing communities including the investment of $14 million in grants. This International Women’s Day,&nbsp;we are pleased to announce our new goal to positively impact 1 million women and girls by 2030.​

In the Asia Pacific region,&nbsp;The Starbucks Foundation is awarding&nbsp;four new grants&nbsp;to uplift women and girls in tea- and coffee-growing communities in&nbsp;Indonesia and India.&nbsp;​

<a rel="noreferrer noopener" 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">Learn more</a>&nbsp;about the organizations we are supporting in the Asia Pacific region and across the globe.&nbsp;

Photo of a woman working on a coffee farm in Indonesia

Supporting Women in Coffee, Tea &amp; Cocoa Communities ​ : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Supporting Women in Coffee, Tea &amp; Cocoa Communities ​

Over the last four years, The Starbucks Foundation has partnered with nonprofit organizations around the world to support 250,000 women&nbsp;and girls in coffee-, tea- and cocoa-growing communities including the investment of $14 million in grants. This International Women’s Day,&nbsp;we are pleased to announce our new goal to positively impact 1 million women and girls by […]

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https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/supporting-women-in-coffee-tea-cocoa-communities/

Supporting Women in Coffee, Tea & Cocoa Communities ​

Today, Starbucks invites customers to experience a new addition to the Starbucks Dewata Coffee Sanctuary in Bali, Indonesia, with the opening of a new Coffee Experience Center that celebrates Indonesia’s rich coffee heritage and showcases how the roasting process elevates the unique quality and diverse flavor profiles of Indonesian coffees. Nestled within the Starbucks Dewata complex, Coffee Experience Center is the latest addition in a series of interactive experiences that celebrate the seed-to-cup journey, bringing together coffee sourcing, roasting, brewing, and serving for customers to explore in one place.

The Coffee Experience Center spans over 140 square meters (approx. 1,500 square feet) with designs inspired by rich copper tones and traditional Balinese Besek baskets, made with the same materials as the Starbucks Dewata Coffee Sanctuary including terracotta brickwork and terrazzo floors. Customers visiting the new Coffee Experience Center can <a>learn </a>about the art and science behind sourcing, roasting and brewing coffee, and explore coffee through interactive workshops hosted onsite.

“This year marks 20years of Starbucks retail presence in Indonesia,” said Anthony McEvoy, leader of Starbucks at PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. “We are very proud that we are making another milestone here by opening the Dewata Coffee Experience Center, serving a range of Starbucks coffees, all locally grown, sourced, and roasted coffee exclusively in Indonesia, starting with coffee from the Aceh region. The Dewata Coffee Experience Center amplifies our leadership and passion for coffee, as well as our commitment to Indonesia’s rich coffee culture.”

McEvoy added, “Aligned with Starbucks global mission to inspire and nurture the human spirit, the Dewata Coffee Experience Center is also an immersive coffee destination that is thoughtfully designed to celebrate the connection between our customers, communities and coffee farmers that is an essential part in serving our coffee. We believe that by highlighting the dedication and care involved in coffee’s creation, the more appreciation others will have to ensuring its future, and we want to reaffirm our commitment to supporting coffee farmers in Indonesia by working closely with the Farmer Support Center to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all.”

At the Coffee Experience Center, customers can learn about Starbucks responsible sourcing practices, and how the company is working with Indonesian coffee farmers at the Farmer Support Center in North Sumatra to ensure sustainable farming practices that improve the resilience, quality, and size of harvests.

“As one of the world’s leading coffee-growing regions, Indonesia has played a unique and important role in Starbucks journey since the beginning,” said Tim Scharrer, managing director and vice president of Starbucks coffee and cocoa. “Starbucks has sourced high-quality Arabica coffee from Indonesia for 50 years and is proud to be one of the largest buyers of Indonesian coffee in the world today. At the same time, we remain dedicated to working with farmers in Indonesia to bring responsibly-sourced Indonesian coffee to the world.”

The one-storey building welcomes everyone from Monday to Sunday from 8 AM to 10 PM with capacity up to 30 seats. For further information, visit <a href="https://dewata.starbucks.co.id/">https://dewata.starbucks.co.id/</a>.

Starbucks Dewata Coffee Experience Center (1)

Starbucks Serves Unique Local Legacy through Coffee Experience Center at Starbucks Dewata : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks Serves Unique Local Legacy through Coffee Experience Center at Starbucks Dewata

Starbucks new Coffee Experience Center celebrates Indonesia's rich coffee heritage and the seed-to-cup journey.

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https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/coffee-experience-center-at-starbucks-dewata/

Today, Starbucks announces all Starbucks stores in Indonesia will gradually transition to cold cups made with rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate). Incorporating recycled material into the supply chain will eliminate the equivalent of over 200,000 kilograms of virgin plastic per year across over 460 stores in Indonesia, reaffirming the company’s commitment to contribute to Starbucks global aspiration to be a resource-positive company. Starbucks will become the first major food and beverage retailer in Indonesia to switch completely to rPET.

“Through the Greener Nusantara initiative, Starbucks Indonesia has been focused on rolling out multiple programs in support of reducing waste across Indonesia. As part of the community, our company is committed to creating positive impact to the communities we serve in sustainable ways,” said Anthony McEvoy, leader of PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. “We will continue our Greener Nusantara initiative and strive to seek breakthroughs in maintaining sustainability.”

In 2020, the company eliminated over 30 million straws through the introduction of the strawless lid for iced beverages. The shift to rPET plastic cups and lids today will further contribute to plastic waste reduction as they are recycled into a new rPET packaging instead of going to the landfill. Currently, all Starbucks stores are also using recycled content packaging such as paper shopping bags, napkins and cup sleeves.

“Together with all partners (employees) in every store across Indonesia, we will focus on continuous improvement for our sustainability commitment in Indonesia” said Avolina Raharjanti, general manager, corporate pr and communications, PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. “In 2021, we are consistently looking and reviewing opportunities focusing on waste reduction and reusage of our coffee grounds. By carrying out these initiatives, we hope to inspire everyone to be responsible in their own communities.”

Starbucks continues to explore innovative ways to reduce single-use plastics and waste in stores throughout Indonesia. Since the launch of the “Bring Your Own Tumbler” program over 12 years ago, Starbucks stores in Indonesia has been encouraging customers to bring their own cups or tumblers by offering Rp5,000 discount. 

Starbucks introduces cold cups made with recycled content in Indonesia : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks introduces cold cups made with recycled content in Indonesia

Starbucks announces all Starbucks stores in Indonesia will gradually transition to cold cups made with recycled materials.

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https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2021/starbucks-introduces-cold-cups-made-with-recycled-content-in-indonesia/

Today, Starbucks announces the introduction of three new plant-based food choices at 57 select stores in Greater Jakarta and Bali, as well as almondmilk at all stores across Indonesia. The expansion of plant-based menu items in Indonesia will offer more choices to accommodate the evolving preferences and lifestyles of customers, and provide them with more ways to customize their Starbucks Experience. The new food choices include the Plant-Based Sloppy Joe Sandwich, Plant-Based Wellington Pocket and Plant-Based Patty Focaccia Bread.

The new line-up in Indonesia joins a growing number of plant-based menu items offered to Starbucks’ customers in Asia Pacific region and around the world. Starbucks remains committed to expanding plant-based food and beverage offerings in locally-relevant ways, as environmentally friendly menu items contribute to Starbucks global aspiration to be a resource-positive company.

“Starbucks offers customers many delicious food and beverage choices to enjoy throughout the day,” said Liryawati, Chief Marketing Officer, PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. “The new food menu and almondmilk beverage options offer everything customers love about their Starbucks favorites, made using plant-based ingredients. We are excited to be now providing the plant-based almondmilk alternative to dairy and soy milk, offering customers new ways to customize and enjoy their favourite Starbucks.”

Last September, Starbucks introduced a seasonal plant-based handcrafted beverage, the Almondmilk Hazelnut Latte to Indonesian customers, which quickly became a customer favorite. Almondmilk is the perfect complement to Starbucks hot, iced and Frappuccino® beverages with delicate nutty sweetness aftertaste.

The plant-based menu is available for customers to order at Starbucks® stores or using the Starbucks Delivers service.

Starbucks Introduces New Plant-Based Menu in Indonesia : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks Introduces New Plant-Based Menu in Indonesia

Starbucks announces new plant-based food and beverage choices in Indonesia.

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2021/starbucks-introduces-new-plant-based-menu-in-indonesia/

Globally, Starbucks continues to expand its Community Store footprint, with new stores in South Korea in 2020 and more than 100 stores in the U.S. by 2025

New store will help support two local NGOs to create educational opportunities for children in Jakarta’s Tanah Abang neighborhood

As part of Starbucks ongoing commitment to creating positive impact in the communities it serves, the store offers partners (employees) from the neighborhood a chance to uplift their community

Today, Starbucks celebrated the opening of its first Community Store in Indonesia, located in the Tanah Abang neighborhood of Jakarta. The largest textile market in Southeast Asia, Tanah Abang is also home to thousands of young people with limited access to education or career development opportunities. Starbucks will partner with two local NGOs, Yayasan Sahabat Anak and the Indonesian Street Children Organization (ISCO), to create further educational opportunities for youth in Tanah Abang.

“Starbucks is committed to using our scale and brand reputation as a force for good,” said Anthony Cottan, director, Starbucks Indonesia, at PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. “Since opening our first store in 2002, we’ve invested in creating long-term positive social impact across Indonesia, growing our community involvement alongside our businesses. With the opening of Tanah Abang Community Store, Starbucks will continue to nurture human connections alongside our partners, our customers, and the young people of Indonesia.”

“Indonesia has a longstanding and proud coffee heritage, which we’ve been incredibly fortunate to share with our customers around the world,” said Sara Trilling, senior vice president and president of Starbucks Asia Pacific. “One of the most important contributions Starbucks can make in return is serving as a catalyst for positive change in the communities we serve. Over the years, we’ve continued to expand the number of Community Stores in the region including Thailand, South Korea, and now Indonesia. We are proud of the commitment our partners have demonstrated, true to our Mission and Values, to bringing more people and more communities together over a cup of coffee through our Community Stores.”

Globally, Starbucks remains committed to its heritage of strengthening communities. In January, Starbucks announced a broad expansion of its Community Store program in the U.S., with plans to open 100 stores by 2025 dedicated to providing economic opportunity in underserved rural and urban communities. Last year, Starbucks also announced more Community Store openings in South Korea scheduled for 2020.

CREATING IMPACT FOR CHILDREN THROUGH COMMUNITY

In addition to a full café, the four floors and more than 250 square meters of the Tanah Abang Community Store offer community space for workshops and classrooms, and showcase Starbucks Indonesia’s social impact initiatives. Nearly all of the Starbucks partners (employees) who work at the store have roots in the Tanah Abang area, making them a true representation of the community.

The store will share a portion of all sales with the two partnering NGOs, so customers will be able to help fund scholarships for local students and support regular educational programs in satellite classrooms across the neighborhood.

Established in 1997, Yayasan Sahabat Anak was founded to encourage and inspire Jakarta’s street children to escape urban poverty. With the support from the Community Store, the organization will be able to mentor students in kindergarten through elementary school through after-class activities in the store.

“We’ve partnered with Starbucks for more than 9 years to provide children in Indonesia with a brighter future,” said Dian Novita Elfrida, Chairman of Yayasan Sahabat Anak. “The Community Store and the active engagement of Starbucks partners and customers will generate many new opportunities for the children of Tanah Abang. We’re extremely proud to help realize a brighter future for the community and the children of Jakarta.”

The Community Store will also help the Indonesian Street Children Organization (ISCO) to provide academic scholarship for dozens of students aged 5-15. Established in 1999, ISCO runs programs to support street children who live in poverty to achieve their potential. Today, ISCO sponsors over 2,000 children across 30 communities in Indonesia.

“Unlocking the potential of the young people in Indonesia is a mission we’ve shared with Starbucks for more than 5 years,” said Josef Fuchs, founder of ISCO. “Starbucks has been very supportive so it felt like a natural step to once again collaborate more closely and create a more positive impact to our future generation.” 

“The Community Store has already woven into the fabric of the neighborhood and we’re very excited to see the ways we can grow together to support children in Tanah Abang,” said Andrea Siahaan, senior general manager of public relations and communications, PT Sari Coffee Indonesia. “Since entering Indonesia in 2002, Starbucks has expanded to more than 430 stores in 32 cities, operated by more than 4,800 partners. Connecting with our customers through the lens of humanity has always been at the heart of our business, and we are excited to see the kind of positive impact we can make together with the community in Tanah Abang.” 

Partner welcome customer at first Starbucks Community Store in Indonesia

Starbucks Opens First Community Store in Indonesia : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks Opens First Community Store in Indonesia

Starbucks opens first Community Store in Indonesia to support youth education.

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https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2020/starbucks-opens-first-community-store-in-indonesia/

Indonesia