Starbucks and SSP Announce Milestone Licensing Agreement to Open Stores in European Travel Markets

Business Wire, June 12, 2008

Stores will open in more than 150 key airport and railway station locations in Europe

LONDON & SEATTLE -- Starbucks Coffee Company (Nasdaq: SBUX) and SSP, a leader in beverage and food concessions for travelers in Europe, today announced a strategic licensing partnership to open more than 150 Starbucks stores in prime travel channels in key European markets within the next three years.

The agreement details wide-ranging co-operation across the European travel market, covering both airport and railway station locations. Starbucks will give SSP licensing rights to the Starbucks brand in a number of significant markets that in some segments are exclusive, including France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

"This collaboration aligns with our strategy to accelerate growth in our international business," said Howard Schultz, chairman, president and ceo of Starbucks. "It provides us with a strong platform to further expand the Starbucks brand across Europe. SSP's experience and leadership position gives us great confidence that together we can deliver the unique Starbucks Experience to more travelers in Europe."

"SSP and Starbucks have a shared passion for delivering the very best quality beverage and food offerings for consumers worldwide," said Andrew Lynch, chief executive officer, SSP. "We are excited about the opportunity to deliver the Starbucks Experience to traveling consumers in these key European markets. SSP has been operating in travel locations in Europe for over 60 years; this experience and our insights into travelling consumers' needs and behavior, coupled with Starbucks unrivaled stature as the world's leading coffee brand is a formidable pairing."

This agreement further supports Starbucks intent to increase its international store growth with licensed partners who have proven experience and demonstrated success.

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 over 16,000 stores in 45 countries, 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 SSP

SSP, the Food Travel Experts, is the leading dedicated operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, with over 2,000 outlets in airports, railway stations, motorway service areas and retail locations in 29 countries. SSP has an unparalleled portfolio of international, national, local and specialty food and beverage brands, including its own national and international brands. Among these are Caff[c] Ritazza, Burger King, M&S Simply Food, Bonne Journee, Caviar House & Prunier, Pizza Hut, Upper Crust and Le Train Bleu. www.foodtravelexperts.com