More than 150 Starbucks stores will open in European travel channels under a partnership agreement announced between the coffee company and SSP.
SSP will have licensing rights for both airport and railway station locations, under the agreement. Some of the locations, including France, Germany and the U.K., will be exclusive.
“This collaboration aligns with our strategy to accelerate growth in our international business,” said Howard Schultz, chairman, president and chief executive officer 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.”
The agreement furthers Starbucks’ plans to push international store growth with licensed partners.
“SSP and Starbucks have a shared passion for delivering the very best quality beverage and food offerings for consumers worldwide,” said Andrew Lynch, CEO of 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 traveling
consumers’ needs and behavior, coupled with Starbucks’ unrivalled stature as the world’s leading coffee brand, is a formidable pairing.”
