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Let us introduce to you to our 2024 Starbucks <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/2024-emea-barista-championships/">EMEA Barista Champion</a>, Sumayyah Eid!

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Beating thousands of other Starbucks baristas as all vying for the win, Summayyah saw off the competition to take the purple apron in London last week.

Taking place in our Starbucks Support Centre in Chiswick, London, the best baristas from our EMEA region battled over three intense days for the title of 2024 EMEA Barista Champion, and for the opportunity to represent the region in the first ever Global Barista Championships taking place next year.&nbsp;

Sumayyah, who represents Jordan, was competing at her first Barista Championships and has been working with Starbucks since she was 15, when she started as a part-time barista in Tampa, Florida. She moved to Jordan in 2019 to be closer to her family.

Straight after her win, Sumayyah said: “Oh my gosh! That is all I can really say. I haven’t processed this yet, you could pinch me – the emotions are overwhelming, in a good way.”

This year, the EMEA Barista Championship was open to 55,000 partners from 42 markets, with 37 of the most talented baristas showcasing the passion that goes into creating the perfect cup of coffee in last week’s final. Their skills were tested across several different rounds, including presenting a coffee tasting, creating picture perfect latte art, inventing their very own signature drink and, for the first time this year, taking part in a ‘store rush’. Dubbed the contestants favourite round, store rush recreates the everyday coffee rush, but the only difference being that the champions were timed and marked on how well they perfect the ‘customer’ order.

The purple apron was presented to Sumayyah by Vaso Papastamatiou, last year’s Champion, who also helped to judge the competition.

“It has meant so much to me to compete this year, and I would encourage every single partner across the globe to take part as it is an amazing experience, regardless of winning the purple apron,” Sumayyah continued. “I want every partner to be as excited as I am. I’ve taken so many photos and videos so when I return home I can share with all my partners.

As well as naming one crowned winner, who also took the title of the first-ever Values Winner by popular vote, this year’s competition also celebrates the incredible talent on display through naming round winners. A huge congratulations to the following partners:

Storytelling 2024 Round Winners (a six-way tie!):

Signature Beverage 2024 Round Winner

Latte Art 2024 Round Winner

Store Rush 2024 Round Winner

From a record-breaking number of participants to entry into the first global Barista Championships taking place in 2025, this year’s championship was truly unforgettable. <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/2024-emea-barista-championships/">Learn more about it here</a>

Sumayyah Eid, Our 2024 Starbucks EMEA Barista Champion! - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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Starbucks Stories EMEA

Sumayyah Eid, Our 2024 Starbucks EMEA Barista Champion!

Let us introduce to you to our 2024 Starbucks EMEA Barista Champion, Sumayyah Eid! Beating thousands of other Starbucks baristas, Summayyah saw off the competition to take the purple apron in London.

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/17/2024/10/Barista_Day_4_844-e1727788749133-1024x816.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/sumayyah-eid-our-2024-starbucks-emea-barista-champion/

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All around Europe, the Middle East and Africa, there is a tangible buzz of anticipation as the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships prepare to take centre stage. This year's competition promises to be a landmark event, featuring a record-breaking number of national winners competing for the coveted purple apron, only one of which is awarded each year.&nbsp;

A Regional Showcase of Talent&nbsp;

The 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will bring together the finest baristas from around the region, with participants demonstrating their skills in a series of challenging tasks, including Storytelling, Latte Art, Signature Beverage alongside a brand-new mission: Store Rush. The competition is a testament to the artistry and passion that goes into crafting the perfect cup of coffee, alongside showcasing the extraordinary connections that partners (employees) create between themselves and their customers.&nbsp;

A Record-Breaking Field&nbsp;

One of the most exciting aspects of this year's competition is the unprecedented number of national winners. With 37 baristas, this year’s competition brings together more champions than ever before. This reflects the continuing power of the Barista Championships, and the importance of the skills being showcased, as it returns for the 11th year in Europe, ahead of the inaugural Global event happening in 2025.&nbsp;

Why This Year's Competition Will Be Unforgettable&nbsp;

There are several reasons to believe that the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will be a truly memorable event. Firstly, the record-breaking number of participants ensures a high level of competition and a diverse range of expertise approaches. Secondly, the winner of the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will represent partners across Europe, the Middle East and Africa in the first Global Barista Championships happening in mid-2025. Finally, the winner of the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships will travel to Rwanda as part of the Starbucks Origin Experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that takes partners to the heart of the story of coffee, experiencing the journey of the humble bean, beginning on the farms where it is grown, and building knowledge they can share with their fellow partners across the Region.&nbsp;

What It Takes to Be a Barista Champion&nbsp;

Becoming a Barista Champion requires a combination of talent, hard work, and a deep understanding of coffee. Successful competitors have a passion for their craft, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to think creatively under pressure. They must also be able to connect with their audience and judges, communicating their passion for coffee effectively.&nbsp;

The 2024 EMEA Barista Championships are poised to be a thrilling and unforgettable event. As the competition takes place from 25th-27th September, we can expect to see some of the most talented and innovative baristas in the world showcase their skills and push the boundaries of coffee artistry. Keep an eye on @EMEACoffeeTeam for updates around the competition livestream.&nbsp;

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30 - Finals 06.10.23

2024 EMEA Barista Championships - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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All around Europe, the Middle East and Africa, there is a tangible buzz of anticipation as the 2024 EMEA Barista Championships prepare to take centre stage. This year&#8217;s competition promises to be a landmark event, featuring a record-breaking number of national winners competing for the coveted purple apron, only one of which is awarded each […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/17/2024/08/Cover-1-1024x731.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/2024-emea-barista-championships/

2024 EMEA Barista Championships

At Starbucks, location is everything. Providing people across EMEA with access to not just great tasting coffee, but to a Third Place to thrive in, is a key part of our mission to nurture the limitless possibilities of human connection with every cup, with every connection and with every community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That’s why our Store Development and Design teams work tirelessly, both to select only the best sites where new Starbucks stores should open and, through the store’s design, reflect the cultural heritage and local communities that it will serve.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While some stores (like drive-thrus) are purpose built, many Starbucks stores across Europe, the Middle East and Africa have been passed the baton by an array of eclectic and culturally significant businesses and institutions. Keep scrolling to discover some of the most unique former lives of Starbucks stores across EMEA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Battersea Power Station (London, UK)&nbsp;

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Alongside Big Ben and The Shard, Battersea Power Station is one of London’s reigning landmarks, attracting over 11.2 million visitors in 2023 after its conversion into a shopping, restaurant and leisure complex the year prior. Built between 1929 and 1941, the station provided the city with a fifth of its power at its peak before closing in the 1980s.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Found at the entrance of Turbine A and opened as part of the redevelopment, the design of the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2022/battersea-power-station-store-opening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Battersea Power Station Starbucks</a> store looks to the industrial elements of its home for inspiration, combining this with Art Deco design elements, mechanical accents and of course, a key focus on coffee equipment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ayvalık Kirlangic (Ayvalık, Turkey)&nbsp;

Located on the northwestern Aegean coast of Turkey, Ayvalık is a town known for its production of high quality olive oil. There’s no better place, then, for the Ayvalık Kirlangic Starbucks store to be housed in a former olive oil and soap factory built in the Greek period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With an immigration museum upstairs opened to recognise the important role that immigrants have played in the town’s development, across Ayvalık there are more than 100 similar factories still standing. The building’s status as a historical monument meant converting the space into a Starbucks store was no small feat, however the design and interior is a tribute to the local architecture of the town, incorporating arches, a warm rustic colour palette and wooden panelling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boulevard des Capucines (Paris, France)&nbsp;

Opened a stone’s throw from the iconic Opera Garnier opera house in the 9th arrondissement of Paris in 2006, the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2017/starbucks-unveils-boulevard-des-capucines-store-in-paris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boulevard des Capucines</a> Starbucks store has a rich history of its own, dating all the way back to the 17th century.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Selling upscale fabrics, textiles and art, the building was formerly home to luxurious department store La Maison Liberty until 1929. None of this luxury has been lost though – the store’s interior (which was refurbished in 2017) reflects its Baroque beginnings, featuring chandeliers, ornate 19th century murals and motifs and touches of gold for those looking to enjoy one of the most opulent of coffee-sipping experiences around.&nbsp;

Prague Castle (Prague, Czech Republic)&nbsp;

Thought to be founded in 880 AD by Prince Bořijov of the Přemyslid dynasty, at nearly 750,000 sq ft Prague Castle is recognized as the largest ancient castle in the world. In addition to being one of the city’s leading landmarks, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic, the castle is home to not one, but two Starbucks stores, opened in 2013 and 2023. While the first store to open in the castle offers panoramic views of the city, the second opened in the castle’s courtyard and utilizes a palette of refined, natural materials to work in harmony with its spectacular historic surroundings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milan (Milan, Italy)&nbsp;

Starbucks’ first location to open in Italy and arguably one of the most beautiful in Europe, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milan opened on the city’s iconic Piazza Cordusio in 2018, a short walk from the iconic Duomo di Milano. 

The <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2018/starbucks-arrives-in-milan-italy-roastery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">second Roastery</a> to open after Seattle and Shanghai, the Milanese counterpart was designed as homage to the Italian espresso culture that inspired Howard Schultz, Starbucks former leader, to create the Starbucks Experience over 40 years ago. Built in 1901 as the last of the Piazza’s ellipse designed by architect Luigi Broggi, the Umbertino (a style of renaissance revival Italian architecture) building – which has formerly housed a Post Office and an Embassy – provides a grandiose setting for the ultimate Starbucks experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cόrdoba Mezquita (Cόrdoba, Spain)&nbsp;

Mezquita-Catedral de Cόrdoba (Mosque-Cathedral of Cόrdoba) is one of the most important monuments in the Western Islamic world. With construction beginning in 786 and spreading over four centuries – not to be completed until the end of the 10th century – the building is an icon of Islamic Moorish architecture, despite being converted into a cathedral in 1236.

 Opened across from the UNESCO World Heritage building in 2022, the Cόrdoba Mezquita Starbucks store has its own unique design. After peeling away the many layers built over the years, the original building’s beautiful brick archways are now the store’s focal point, complimented with soft in-store lightening and brass details.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Findlater’s Corner (London, UK)&nbsp;

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London’s Findlater’s Corner is a Victorian-era site named after the wine and spirit dealer Findlater, Mackie, Todd &amp; Co. Nestled in the arches that sit on the approach to London Bridge station, the site – which dates to 1863 – was restored in 2022, unveiling not only a historic tearoom, but its original blue mosaic facade designed by mosaicist Jesse Rust. 

Notably a safe meeting point during the emancipation of women in London, the site was transformed into a Starbucks store in 2023, continuing the building’s long legacy of bringing people together over a beverage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Narmanli Han (Istanbul, Turkey)&nbsp;

Nearly 20 years after first arriving in the city, 2020 saw the Narmanli Han Starbucks store open its doors on Istanbul’s iconic Istiklal Avenue. Created by Swiss-Italian architects Gaspare and Giuseppe Fossati in 1831, the building boasts a colourful history. Before being bought by the wealthy Narmanli family (where the building takes its name) in 1933, the site was used as the city’s Russian Embassy until 1880 and as a prison until 1914. After a number of renovation projects, today the two-storied store combines the building’s historic design with an array modern touches and furnishings and a distinctive water feature in its courtyard.&nbsp;

Carbrook Hall (Sheffield, UK)

Let’s end things on a more spooky note, shall we? The English city of Sheffield might be known for its history of steel production or even being home to the world’s oldest football club, but it’s also known for Carbrook Hall – which is said to be one of the city’s most haunted buildings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The original historic house, which has been owned by a number of wealthy families, was demolished and rebuilt in the 19th century (except for its Grade II listed stone wing, which dates back to 1620) and run as a pub until 2016. Three years later, the Carbrook Hall Starbucks Drive Thru opened, but it appears nothing about its ghostly reputation has changed.&nbsp;

In 2022, <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2022/starbucks-spookiest-store-carbrook-hall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starbucks invited professional ghost hunters</a> Lee and Linzi Steer to visit the property to confirm the other-worldly energy. “Our specialist equipment was reaction quickly and with strength – the most we’ve seen in a while and in more than one room, including the wood panelled Oak Room where we often come to enjoy a Starbucks coffee,” they said. “We would undoubtedly say this is the most haunted coffee shop in the UK.”&nbsp;

The historic, weird and wonderful former lives of Starbucks stores across EMEA  - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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The historic, weird and wonderful former lives of Starbucks stores across EMEA 

At Starbucks, location is everything. Providing people across EMEA with access to not just great tasting coffee, but to a Third Place to thrive in, is a key part of our mission to nurture the limitless possibilities of human connection with every cup, with every connection and with every community.&nbsp;&nbsp; That’s why our Store Development […]

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https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/the-historic-weird-and-wonderful-former-lives-of-starbucks-stores-across-emea/

Looking to elevate your next iced coffee order with a little je ne sais quoi? You’re in the right place. Putting a contemporary spin on a beloved ‘80s dessert, Starbucks EMEA is ringing in the warmer months this year with its new rich and velvety Crème Brulée inspired Cream Cold Foam. Add it to any of your favourite cold drinks for an extra smooth, creamy sip, or try it first on top of one of our three reimagined cold beverages:

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Siân Mattison is the Beverage Category Manager at Starbucks EMEA, and says that this summer campaign feels different from previous years. “Usually we’d focus on one new element per Frappuccino, iced coffee, etc. But this year the Crème Brulée topping goes across three focus beverages – it pulls it all together. It feels more cohesive, special and offers our customers an element of customisation,” she explains. “At Starbucks we have so many options to tailor your beverage to suit you, and the new addition of the Crème Brulée Cream Cold Foam encapsulates that perfectly.”

Joining Starbucks 8 years ago, Siân has led the development of food and beverages in the UK, Italy and across EMEA. It’s her job to spot opportunities and trends in beverages and to capture customer’s imaginations in Starbucks drinks. “There’s a lot of research that goes into the job. We cater to a lot of different countries and customers in Europe ,Middle East and Africa so it’s a balancing act of appealing to the majority but keeping it interesting.”

The drink she’s most excited for customers to try? “Definitely the Crème Brulée x Brown Sugar Frappuccino. We’ve never done one without a whipped topped before, so it’s an entirely new take for us. I’m really excited to bring it to a new audience and to see how our customers take to it.”

As Beverage Product Developer at Starbucks EMEA, Estelle Buffet has a job many would dream of. “I get to eat and drink a lot as part of my job which is great!” she laughs. A Starbucks partner of two and a half years, Estelle creates beverages with a focus on Frappuccinos and Refreshas. Her earliest memory of Starbucks is when her Dad used to regularly take her back in the early ’00s.

“After a lot of ideation, research and talking to customers, I’ll come up with a long list of ideas for beverages and then work with wider cross-functional teams to narrow these concepts down,” she explains. “Initially, the Crème Brulée came from the idea of incorporating the flavour of custard into a beverage. It doesn’t matter where you are, Crème Brulée is pretty iconic. Everyone knows what to expect with it – its flavour is simple but the experience of enjoying it is special, and we thought that would work so well on our Summer beverages.”

“The textural element of the Crème Brulée Cold Foam was really important,” Estelle continues. “While it’s rich, glossy and full of flavour, the texture is light<ins>,</ins> which balances it out really well. It marries so nicely with coffee and with three options to choose from, there really is something for everyone.”

Summer is here! Meet Starbucks EMEA's new Crème Brulée inspired Cream Cold Foam and the Starbucks partners that developed it - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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Summer is here! Meet Starbucks EMEA&#8217;s new Crème Brulée inspired Cream Cold Foam and the Starbucks partners that developed it

Looking to elevate your next iced coffee order with a little je ne sais quoi? You’re in the right place. Putting a contemporary spin on a beloved ‘80s dessert, Starbucks EMEA is ringing in the warmer months this year with its new rich and velvety Crème Brulée inspired Cream Cold Foam. Add it to any […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/summer-is-here-meet-starbucks-emeas-new-creme-brulee-inspired-cream-cold-foam-and-the-starbucks-partners-that-developed-it/

Summer is here! Meet Starbucks EMEA’s new Crème Brulée inspired Cream Cold Foam and the Starbucks partners that developed it

Spring has sprung! And as we welcome the longer, brighter days of a new season, why not embrace the latest Starbucks menu additions across EMEA to brighten up your day even more?

Introducing the latest Starbucks beverage innovation, the Iced Strawberry Matcha Tea Latte. Complimenting the earthy tones of matcha with the sweet and fruity flavour of strawberry cream cold foam, it not only tastes like a sip of Spring, but its striking appearance reflects the colours of blossoming flowers - a staple of the season. 

"The strawberry element of the drink makes it more familiar and accessible, encouraging customers who have never tried matcha to do so," says Roshnee Dattani, Senior Beverage Developer at Starbucks EMEA. 

"The drink is created with the finest quality, unsweetened matcha powder and sourced from Asia... We serve all our Matcha Green Tea Lattes in EMEA with 100% green tea and no added sugar, to ensure that every cup is of the highest standard."

Matcha connoisseurs and newbies alike will fall head over heels for this one - it's top quali-tea!

Iced Caramelised Macadamia Oat Shaken Espresso

A new member of the Iced Shaken Espresso family, the buttery and nutty flavours of macadamia meet the light, smooth notes of Starbucks Blonde® Espresso roast. Shaken with ice and topped with a generous splash of oat dairy alternative, it’s a must-have accompaniment for those fresh Spring walks.&nbsp;

Launched back in 2023, this Iced Shaken Espresso favourite returns, offering a sweet, toasted vanilla flavour when paired with Starbucks Blonde® Espresso roast and oat drink. &nbsp;

Available at participating Starbucks stores across EMEA, while stocks last.

Put a Spring in your step with Starbucks latest menu additions across EMEA, including the new Iced Strawberry Matcha Tea Latte - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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Put a Spring in your step with Starbucks latest menu additions across EMEA, including the new Iced Strawberry Matcha Tea Latte

Spring has sprung! And as we welcome the longer, brighter days of a new season, why not embrace the latest Starbucks menu additions across EMEA to brighten up your day even more? Iced Strawberry Matcha Tea Latte Introducing the latest Starbucks beverage innovation, the Iced Strawberry Matcha Tea Latte. Complimenting the earthy tones of matcha […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/put-a-spring-in-your-step-with-starbucks-latest-menu-additions-across-emea-including-the-new-iced-strawberry-matcha-tea-latte/

Whether you’re looking for a beautiful space to enjoy some me time, catch-up with a loved one, or to simply grab a quick cup of great coffee, there’s a Starbucks store for you. And over the last sixth months, a host of new stores have opened across EMEA, from spots in historic landmarks to Starbucks first ever store openings in Bari, Italy and Reims, France. Ready for a new adventure in 2024, but need some inspiration? Here’s a list of some of the latest Starbucks locations to visit to add to your list!

Found on the city’s iconic Princes Street, this 8,000 sq ft store (the biggest to open in the UK in recent years) was designed as a homage to Edinburgh’s past and present. While a curved arch over the bar symbolizes the Edinburgh Vaults (the city’s historic underground chambers built in the 18th century), the first floor offers a jaw-dropping view of Edinburgh Castle. Opened in November, the store provided the perfect coffee pit-stop for Edinburgh’s Christmas market goers.

Opened in December, this is the second store to open in Prague castle – a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts nearly 2 million visitors a year. Nestled in a courtyard in the castle grounds (which were built in the 9th century), the store was designed with a palette of refined, natural materials to complement its spectacular surroundings. It’s the perfect place for a break as you explore the castle, which at almost 750,000 sq ft was named the largest ancient castle in the world by the Guiness Book of Records.

Sitting in-between two popular holiday resorts since July, this Starbucks drive thru store is more than meets the eye. With its tropical design inspired by the Cesme Peninsula (the westernmost point in Turkey), look beyond its palm tree-lined drive thru and its home to a number of sustainable design features. While its electricity is powered via solar panels, the store collects rainwater to keep its landscaping green and lush.

The idea for the third store along Madrid’s Gran Via – one of the city’s most important shopping destinations – was to imitate the ethos of a Spanish Plaza. Much like the Third Place, a plaza serves as a focal point of a city and provides a meeting space where discussions and ideas can flourish. Opened in November and home to lush botanical artwork and 3D green wall features, the store isn’t just a community hub – its refined design is a reminder of Starbucks sustainability goals.

Jeddah Park, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Located a short distance from luxurious shopping and entertainment center Jeddah Park, this store made history when it opened on 4 May. Not only was it Jeddah’s very first Starbucks Reserve store, but it became the 400th store to open in the Kingdom of Saudia Arabia. As well as offering a truly bespoke coffee craft experience for coffee lovers, the space boasts a striking geometric ceiling - part inspired by the Starbucks coffee bean selection process, and part by the abstract colours of the Starbucks Coffee Reserve cards.

Known for its prestigious champagne houses and historical significance for France’s monarchy, the city of Reims welcomed its first Starbucks store in September. Found on the iconic Place Drouet d’Erlon, the store channels the essence of Reims’ champagne industry in even the finest of its design details. Curved ceilings mimic cellar vaults, wood and textured accents channel rustic cellar details, and vibrant origin artwork symbolises the shared natural roots of both champagne and coffee.

Now to the Adriatic Coast, where in July the Italian province of Puglia opened its first Starbucks store in the picturesque port city of Bari. Like the architecture that lines the city’s shores, the store reflects the nautical heritage of Bari with a costal colour palette, a light sculpture above the bar, and marine-themed artwork.

DxBike, United Arab Emirates

For those who enjoy a spot of alfresco coffee with their cycling, the DxBike kiosk is right up your street. Located next to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City development and boasting views of the Dubai skyline, this external kiosk can be found in the fitness centre’s new cycling area, Dubai Pump Track. Whether you’re after an energy kick before taking on the 8.4 km bike track or a post-cycle indulgent treat, the DxBike Starbucks kiosk has got you covered.

Opened in September, this Starbucks location is steeped in rich history (quite literally). Formerly a 150+ year old tearoom hidden behind a wall until its discovery in 2022, the store is part of London Bridge’s historic Victorian site, Findlater’s Corner. Once a safe meeting place during the emancipation of women in London, the space now offers an entire community of coffee enthusiasts in Old Southwark a space to meet. Designed by prolific mosaicist Jesse Rust in the 19th century, the store’s beautiful blue façade has been restored as a tribute to its former life.

Just a 45 minute train journey from Lisbon is Sintra, a fairytale-like UNESCO world heritage town nestled in the Sintra Mountains. A tourist hotspot due to its scenic castles, palaces and gardens, Starbucks opened a heritage store in the town in August. To compliment the building’s original architecture, the store’s design is light and subtle. Alcoves are softly illuminated, while coffee leaf art is engraved on timbre to match the store’s original beams.

From ancient castles to Victorian railway arches, these are the latest Starbucks stores to open across EMEA - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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From ancient castles to Victorian railway arches, these are the latest Starbucks stores to open across EMEA

Whether you’re looking for a beautiful space to enjoy some me time, catch-up with a loved one, or to simply grab a quick cup of great coffee, there’s a Starbucks store for you. And over the last sixth months, a host of new stores have opened across EMEA, from spots in historic landmarks to Starbucks […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/from-ancient-castles-to-victorian-railway-arches-these-are-the-latest-starbucks-stores-to-open-across-emea/

New Year is the perfect chance to do things differently - so why not start things off by shaking up your Starbucks order? You’re in luck, because from January Starbucks is introducing new winter warmers (or iced if you’d prefer, no judgement here) to the menu across Europe. Here’s your first look at them.

The latest addition to the Starbucks Oat Latte family, the Almond Biscotti Oat Latte combines the classic biscuit flavour with creamy oat milk and Starbucks Espresso® roast, creating a modern twist on a tried (and beloved) Italian flavour - whether enjoyed hot or iced.

“Almond biscotti is a flavour known around the globe for its simple perfection, taste, quality – and as an excellent coffee pairing,” Teresa Kremer, Beverage Category Manager at Starbucks EMEA said. “Alongside the beloved Caramelised Macadamia Oat Latte, the Almond Biscotti Oat Latte showcases innovation at Starbucks and creates a modern drinking experience that is full of flavour and lightens the long, cold winter months for our customers.”

Winter is the best time of year to indulge yourself, and how better to do it than by enjoying a new take on hot chocolate? Combining the sweet, buttery notes of caramelised white chocolate with whipped cream and an extra helping of caramel white chocolate sauce, each sip of the new Golden Caramel White Hot Chocolate feels like a warm, toasty hug this winter.

“With winter days being so long and cold, this is the perfect time to introduce a luxurious hot chocolate treat and a Starbucks take on this beautiful flavour combination – the perfect indulgent addition to our winter range,” Kremer says.

The winter menu is available to enjoy from all Starbucks® stores and drive-thrus across Europe from 4 of January. Find your nearest store on <a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.starbucks.co.uk%2Fstore-locator%3Fmap%3D53.380052%252C-1.469421%252C7z%26latLng%3D51.4309209%252C-0.0936496%26zoom%3D12&amp;data=04%7C01%7CKathryn.Waring%40edelman.com%7Cd105dc15a7a2420739b408d93718f9b8%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C637601403051920471%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=i%2F16JYg6iIg2WX%2B609woBYCwLw%2BWhlbxw1xAY9m2w20%3D&amp;reserved=0">Starbucks Store Locator</a>.

Happy Brew Year! Starbucks introduces the Almond Biscotti Oat Latte and Golden Caramel White Hot Chocolate to kick off 2024 - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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Happy Brew Year! Starbucks introduces the Almond Biscotti Oat Latte and Golden Caramel White Hot Chocolate to kick off 2024

New Year is the perfect chance to do things differently &#8211; so why not start things off by shaking up your Starbucks order? You’re in luck, because from January Starbucks is introducing new winter warmers (or iced if you’d prefer, no judgement here) to the menu across Europe. Here’s your first look at them. Almond […]

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https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2024/happy-brew-year-starbucks-introduces-the-almond-biscotti-oat-latte-and-golden-caramel-white-hot-chocolate-to-kick-off-2024/

At Starbucks, our coffee goes on quite the journey to get to you. Whatever your order, our coffee is responsibly sourced from farmers around the world.

For over 50 years we've aspired to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all. Working together, we are focused on not only providing coffee farmers with the knowledge, tools and resources to adapt to climate change, but we are also committed to being part of the solution by promoting and scaling sustainable farming practices across the coffee industry.&nbsp;

C.A.F.E. Practices, our approach to responsibly sourced coffee in partnership with Conservation International, is a verification programme that measures farms against 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 and workers, their families and their communities.&nbsp;

A sustainable future for coffee involves caring for the entire coffee ecosystem – the planet, but also all the people and places that are part of coffee’s journey, from seed to cup.

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For coffee stories from around the world, head to our new Global Starbucks Stories page dedicated to our shared love of coffee.

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From Seed to Cup - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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At Starbucks, our coffee goes on quite the journey to get to you. Whatever your order, our coffee is responsibly sourced from farmers around the world. For over 50 years we&#8217;ve aspired to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all. Working together, we are focused on not only providing coffee farmers with the knowledge, […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/17/2023/09/SBUX_JourneyOfACoffeeBean_16x9_v15-GIF-1024x576.gif

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2023/from-seed-to-cup/

From Seed to Cup

Starbucks entered the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region 25 years ago, opening our first store in the UK in 1998 on Kings Road, London.

Our first market in EMEA, and still our largest, Starbucks now welcomes millions of customers every year at more than 1,100 stores across the UK.

From introducing flavours like our iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), to establishing new coffee craft experiences such as <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2023/coffee-meets-olive-oil-the-story-behind-starbucks-new-coffee-ritual-starbucks-oleato-coffee-beverages/">Starbucks Oleato™</a> - we’re proud of what has been accomplished over the last quarter century. We were even the first major coffeehouse to introduce Cold Brew to the UK high street in 2015, which has since become a staple nationwide.

Now, to celebrate our 25th anniversary we’ve launched a Cold Brew with an exclusive new taste – one that combines two quintessentially British flavours to create a celebratory coffee moment that comes together with a unique twist. The Starbucks®&nbsp;Clotted Cream Fudge Cold Brew is a sensational sip of classic British flavours of fudge and clotted cream, both produced in the UK and paired with Starbucks smooth Cold Brew to bring to life our popular iced offering exclusively for British coffee lovers.

In addition to bold product innovation and industry-leading coffee craft, 25 years of Starbucks presence across Europe Middle East and Africa has also been defined by growth and expansion. Today, we celebrate a significant milestone on our journey as we open our 20,000th store outside of North America in Oldham, Manchester, in the UK.

This mixed-format store features the convenience of a Drive Thru, alongside relaxed sit and stay seating and is certified as a <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2023/starbucks-certifies-first-greener-stores-in-the-uk/">Greener Store</a>, repurposed from a former retail outlet and reflects our commitment to developing new store formats that meet our customers’ needs where they are.

Alex Rayner, General Manager at Starbucks UK, said: “As we celebrate 25 years of contributions and leadership within UK coffee culture, we are proud to build on our coffee craft legacy by welcoming a new, permanent beverage to our menus, and to continue realising our ambitious plans for growth.”

“We’ve seen huge revenue growth in both the UK and EMEA – in part down to new stores in the region, but also by innovating at pace to meet our customers where they're at – investing in digital&nbsp;channels, new store formats, and expanding the Third Place as our customers’ expectations and habits evolve.

“It’s been an incredible 25 years, and it couldn’t have been achieved without our incredible partners. I’m looking forward to the next 25.”

Starbucks has also taken action to secure the future of coffee, including introducing the pioneering <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2020/cafe-practices-starbucks-approach-to-ethically-sourcing-coffee/">C.A.F.E. Practices</a>, one of the coffee industry's first set of ethical sourcing standards to ensure fairness across our supply chains, establishing <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2022/starbucks-farmer-support-centers-free-education-and-resources/">Farmer Support Centres</a> around the world, and <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2021/starbucks-to-work-directly-with-farmers-to-help-reduce-emissions/">piloting new sustainable dairy&nbsp;sourcing</a> techniques as part of an industry-leading programme, as we commit to giving back more than we take from the planet.

Starbucks celebrates 25 years of coffee in the UK and in the Europe Middle East and Africa region - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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Starbucks celebrates 25 years of coffee in the UK and in the Europe Middle East and Africa region

Starbucks entered the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region 25 years ago, opening our first store in the UK in 1998 on Kings Road, London. Our first market in EMEA, and still our largest, Starbucks now welcomes millions of customers every year at more than 1,100 stores across the UK. From introducing flavours like […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/17/2023/09/25-Years-UK-Stories-Header-1024x533.png

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2023/25-years-of-coffee-in-the-uk-and-emea/

<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2022/barista-championships-2022-milan-winner/">Phuti</a>, the EMEA Barista Champion for 2022, shares his journey of striving for success. Overcoming his shyness, he found his stride at Starbucks, where he thrived through the support of his fellow partners who helped him achieve his coffee goals.

Starbucks South Africa established the Black Apron Coffee Master’s Squad, known as the Black Mambas, with the mission to strengthen coffee knowledge and create a culture of warmth and belonging. Starbucks partner Ishan (aka Mr. Miyagi), their mentor, emphasises routine, consistency, preparation, and genuine human connection as keys to success.

Phuti's triumph in Milan at the 2022 Barista Championship final, supported by his fellow partners Ishan and Teddy, showcases the power of perseverance and a strong support system; ultimately, 'How to Brew a Champion'.

How to Brew a Champion - Starbucks Stories EMEA

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Phuti, the EMEA Barista Champion for 2022, shares his journey of striving for success. Overcoming his shyness, he found his stride at Starbucks, where he thrived through the support of his fellow partners who helped him achieve his coffee goals. Starbucks South Africa established the Black Apron Coffee Master’s Squad, known as the Black Mambas, […]

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https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2023/how-to-brew-a-champion/

How to Brew a Champion

The Starbucks EMEA Barista Championship is set to make its triumphant return for the 10th time. A celebration of coffee craft and passion, the yearly event brings together green apron partners from across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, showcasing their exceptional knowledge and shared commitment to the art of coffee craft.

It all starts in store, store champions then compete in district and regional heats, working their way to the national finals where one barista is eventually named National Barista Champion meaning they're the best barista in their market.

National Champions then compete in the EMEA finals to be named overall champion across Starbucks EMEA, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Year after year, Barista Championship-mania takes over Starbucks, here are five reasons why:

1. A Decade of Opportunity:

Since its inception, the EMEA Barista Championship has stood as a beacon of opportunity for thousands of aspiring baristas. The competition has provided a platform for up-and-coming talents to shine, proving that every green apron partner possesses the potential to become the best barista. As the 10th edition approaches in 2023, the excitement is palpable, as green apron partners gear up to showcase their coffee passion, knowledge, and craft in the biggest competition to-date.

2. A Symphony of Coffee Expertise:

Green apron partners represent the heartbeat of Starbucks, and their involvement in the championship is a testament to their status as coffee aficionados. With the ability to hand-craft innovative and great-tasting beverages, and unparalleled levels of knowledge, each brew, pour, and craft, is a symphony composed of years of coffee dedication and love.

3. Forging Connections through Coffee:

Beyond the thrill of competition, the EMEA Barista Championship fosters a unique shared experience. Partners come together from different corners of the region, perfecting their skills and forging meaningful connections through their shared love of coffee. As partners collaborate and learn from one another, the championship becomes a powerful testament to the sense of community and human connection that lies at the heart of Starbucks.

4. From Local Passion to National Glory:

The journey to becoming the best barista begins at the local store level, where store champions emerge. These dedicated partners then elevate their craft through district and regional heats, each step bringing them closer to the coveted title of National Barista Champion. The championship becomes a caring obsession, a pursuit of excellence that culminates in the recognition of being the best barista in their respective market.

5. Ambassadors of Coffee Craft and Connection:

Becoming a Barista Champion is not just a personal achievement; champions become ambassadors for Starbucks, empowered to share their knowledge, passion, and expertise with fellow partners and customers alike. Barista Champions uphold the Starbucks Experience through meaningful connections over coffee and their ability to effortlessly tell the tale of coffee’s journey from bean to cup.

Anticipation builds across EMEA as the countdown to the Barista Championship final begins. The grand final is set for 6 October, where one partner will don the coveted purple apron, an apron only awarded to EMEA Barista Champions.

Still wondering what it takes to make a champion? Look no further than South Africa who have won two out of the past three competitions:

Starbucks EMEA Barista Championship Returns for its 10th Anniversary - Starbucks Stories EMEA

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/17/2023/08/1.png

Starbucks EMEA Barista Championship Returns for its 10th Anniversary

The Starbucks EMEA Barista Championship is set to make its triumphant return for the 10th time. A celebration of coffee craft and passion, the yearly event brings together green apron partners from across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, showcasing their exceptional knowledge and shared commitment to the art of coffee craft. It all starts […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/17/2023/08/1-1024x533.png

https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2023/starbucks-barista-championship-returns-for-10th-anniversary/

Coffee & Craft