New Starbucks Chocolates Debuts: Blending Premium Artisan-Style Chocolate with Authentic Coffeehouse Flavors

Starbucks Coffee Company (NASDAQ: SBUX) invites chocolate, coffee and tea enthusiasts to discover Starbucks® Chocolate ? a new portfolio of artisan-style chocolate inspired by Starbucks® coffee, Tazo® tea and other authentic coffeehouse flavors. Debuting nationwide this month, consumers can experience and savor the Starbucks flavors they love, transformed into delicious chocolate.

Drawing upon the premium chocolate expertise of Artisan Confections Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Hershey Company, master chocolatiers have created a portfolio of chocolate that showcases the artistry of the bean-to-bar chocolate-making process and flavor experience of Starbucks. The chocolates are crafted with high-quality, flavorful cacao from around the world and then thoughtfully blended with premium natural ingredients, authentic Starbucks® coffee, Tazo tea and other authentic coffeehouse flavors. The result is an inspired collection of chocolates with artistic shapes, flavors and aromas that are uniquely Starbucks. The collection includes: signature dark, mocha and milk chocolate bars and tasting squares; Tazo® Chai, Passion and Citron tea-infused chocolate tasting squares; Caffè Mocha, Chai, Espresso, Caramel Macchiato and Madagascar Vanilla Bean Truffles; and Milk Chocolate Covered Caffè Verona® Coffee Beans.

"Chocolate has always been a special part of the coffeehouse experience," said Wendy Piñero, vice president, consumer products, Starbucks Coffee Company. "We are excited to extend the Starbucks Experience into the world of premium chocolates with the same passion and care as we do our specialty coffees."

Now available nationwide, Starbucks Chocolate retails for $2.99 and up and will be sold at grocery, mass retailers, club and drugstores. The Starbucks Chocolate portfolio will not be available in Starbucks stores at this time.

Together, Starbucks Coffee Company and The Hershey Company are working to make a positive difference in the world's cacao-growing regions. As part of this commitment and shared values, The Hershey Company has begun to pilot and implement Cocoa Practices, in addition to the company's current responsible sourcing initiatives. Cocoa Practices is Starbucks sustainable cocoa purchasing guidelines for Starbucks branded products, including Starbucks Chocolate. The effort encourages best practices in cocoa production among farmers, processors and exporters. The two companies are evaluating, identifying and supporting producers of quality, sustainably grown cacao. For more information, visit www.starbucks.com/cocoa.