Starbucks Appoints Three Key Leadership Roles

SEATTLE, September 03, 2009 - Starbucks Coffee Company (NASDAQ:SBUX) today announced the appointment of Annie Young-Scrivner to global chief marketing officer. She will be responsible for the global marketing and product strategy for the Starbucks brand. Michelle Gass will serve in the newly created role of president, Seattle's Best Coffee (SBC), and be accountable for building the SBC brand and accelerating its growth potential in the global specialty coffee category.

Additionally, John Culver, will assume the role of president, Global Consumer Products (CPG) and Foodservice, and continue leading the global Starbucks CPG and Foodservice business units. All positions report to chairman, president and ceo Howard Schultz.

"As we move toward Starbucks new fiscal year, now is the time to keep the positive momentum seen in our U.S. business and build on our global opportunities. Moving SBC into a distinct and separate business unit will provide the focus necessary to enable SBC's full potential in the specialty coffee marketplace," commented Schultz. "These appointments will strengthen the expertise of a proven internal leader and enhance the leadership team with diverse talent from outside Starbucks to give us the depth necessary to operate a global business."

Young-Scrivner brings 20 years of global marketing strategy experience to her role that she begins later this month. She most recently served as Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President of Sales for Quaker Foods and Snacks, a division of PepsiCo. She was past Chairman and Region President of PepsiCo Foods for Greater China, and had a global consumer brand portfolio that included Pepsi, Frito-Lay, Quaker, Tropicana and Gatorade. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration-Marketing from the University of Washington, and a Master of Business Administration at the Carlson School of Business, University of Minnesota.

"Annie brings a wealth of knowledge in international business and a proven track record in global marketing and product strategy, including health and wellness," added Schultz.

Gass, who most recently served as executive vice president, Marketing and Category, will lead the new business unit of Seattle's Best Coffee. This includes the management of more than 550 specialty coffee cafes across the U.S., the packaged coffee business in grocery channels, and foodservice business. She will also oversee SBC's expanded franchising program announced this past February.

Gass is a 13-year veteran of Starbucks. Her recent accomplishments include working with Schultz and the leadership team to create the Transformation Agenda and execute against key strategic priorities. She was instrumental in forging the partnership with (PRODUCT)^RED, leading Starbucks move into Health and Wellness and the Real Food. Simply Delicious. launch, and the introduction of Starbucks VIA™ Ready Brew, instant and microground coffee. Prior to Starbucks, Gass held marketing and product management roles at Procter & Gamble.

"With her tenure and background in marketing, strategy and innovation, Michelle is the right leader to elevate the SBC brand and position it for continued growth," said Schultz.

John Culver, will assume the role of president, Global Consumer Products and Foodservice, and continue leading the global Starbucks CPG and Foodservice business units. He will work closely with Gass to ensure a smooth transition of SBC and continued integration with the other business units.

About Starbucks

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting the highest quality arabica coffee in the world. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at www.starbucks.com.

About Seattle's Best Coffee

Founded in 1970, Seattle's Best Coffee has more than 550 specialty coffee cafes, kiosks and other concepts in the U.S. Its coffee is available nationwide in supermarkets and at more than 6,000 foodservice locations, such as college campuses, restaurants, hotels, airlines and cruise lines. Seattle's Best Coffee's smooth roasting delivers a rich and balanced Uncommonly Smooth™ taste. Seattle's Best Coffee offers more than 30 whole bean and ground coffees (including flavored, organic and Fair Trade Certified™ coffees), espresso beverages, signature hand-crafted JavaKula® blended beverages, OvenSong™ bakery warm food and sandwiches, and select merchandise. Seattle's Best Coffee is a featured brand within Starbucks Corporation. For more information, please visit Seattle's Best Coffee online at www.seattlesbest.com.

Â