Starbucks Showcases Coffee Leadership and Commitment to Communities

“Starbucks is the destination for helping customers move into the fall season with the warmth of our handcrafted, personalized beverages, breakfast and lunch options, or afternoon treats.

Sep 15 2011 --- Starbucks Coffee Company welcomes the cool, crisp days of fall with a variety of tastes and flavors in Starbucks signature roast suited for any occasion. Whether it’s brewed in-store, instant coffee on-the-go or whole bean packaged coffee to brew at home, Starbucks brings 40 years of roasting expertise to customers through every cup of coffee.

Making a Difference - One Bag of Coffee and Community at a Time

This season, Starbucks celebrates a coffee that also demonstrates the company’s commitment to community: Gold Coast Blend – Morning Joe Edition. This coffee, a partner (employee) and customer favorite, was introduced in grocery stores in 2009 to honor the Company’s relationship with MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” program and the shared interest in education and community involvement. Now for the first time Gold Coast Blend – Morning Joe Edition whole bean coffee will be featured in Starbucks U.S. retail stores.

Beginning Oct. 4, Gold Coast Blend – Morning Joe Edition will feature a $5 donation card to DonorsChoose.org allowing customers to donate directly to a school classroom project of their choice. DonorsChoose.org is an online non-profit organization that allows public school teachers across America to post classroom needs online and gives individuals the ability to contribute directly to a specific project.

“We are pleased to continue to combine our unique relationship with MSNBC to highlight examples of innovative approaches to strengthening communities where educational support is critical,” said Cecilia Carter, vice president, Global Diversity, Community and Government Affairs, Starbucks Coffee Company. “In addition to supporting DonorsChoose.org, every month ’Morning Joe’ features one individual who is a champion for education, utilizing new ideas to create a positive impact on local education and local communities. Additionally, ‘Morning Joe’ will broadcast live from select schools across the country to showcase educators and communities making a difference.”

Whole Bean – Brewing at Home

This fall, customers are encouraged to discover or rediscover the variety of flavors of Starbucks whole bean coffees. Now through Oct. 2, customers who buy any two Starbucks coffee products (packaged coffee or Starbucks VIA Ready Brew) at participating grocery stores will receive an offer for a $5 Starbucks Card eGift redeemable online.

Seasonal Favorites Return at Starbucks

Starbucks brings back a customer favorite with the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte for its eighth season. Each year, Starbucks customers eagerly await this fall favorite that features a combination of Starbucks signature espresso, traditional seasonal spices, mixed with steamed milk, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spices. Additionally, for a limited time, customers can enjoy a broad selection of Salted Caramel beverages, including the new Salted Caramel Mocha, perfect for those seeking an indulgently sweet and savory treat.

“This is the time of year when customers transition from the care-free days of summer to the more familiar routines of fall,” said Annie Young-Scrivner, global chief marketing officer, Starbucks Coffee Company. “Starbucks is the destination for helping customers move into the fall season with the warmth of our handcrafted, personalized beverages, breakfast and lunch options, or afternoon treats.”

Returning again for the 17th year in stores is Starbucks Anniversary Blend ($14.95 U.S./$18.95 CAN). Starbucks Anniversary Blend is a spicy, complex and full-bodied coffee made with a blend of Asia-Pacific coffees, including aged Sumatra.