Starbucks is celebrating a decade of success in Colombia, a key market for the coffee giant. To mark the occasion, Alsea, Starbucks’ operator in Colombia, has unveiled plans for a significant investment of US$12 million over the next three years. This investment will fund the opening of 30 new stores, further solidifying Starbucks’ presence and commitment to the country.
Expanding Presence and Sustainability in Colombia
Since its entry into the Colombian market in 2014, Starbucks, under Alsea’s management, has opened 71 stores across six major cities, including Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali. The company’s expansion has been driven by a commitment to bringing premium coffee experiences to Colombia, a nation renowned for its rich coffee-growing heritage.
With this new round of investment, Starbucks plans to enter additional cities, diversify its store formats to cater to different consumer needs, and enhance sustainability efforts. The company is focusing on building eco-friendly stores with designs that incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies. These initiatives are part of Starbucks’ global mission to reduce its environmental impact and promote responsible retail practices.
In a statement, Armando Torrado, CEO of Alsea, reflected on the company’s achievements: “Over these 10 years, we have transformed our passion for coffee into a success story, driven by innovation, dedication, and a commitment to providing exceptional experiences to our customers. This milestone is a testament to the hard work of our teams and partners in Colombia. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey.”
Torrado also looked ahead, saying: “With the same excitement and passion that has defined us from the beginning, we look to the future determined to continue fulfilling our purpose of delivering happiness and flavourful experiences. Our expansion in Colombia is just the beginning.”
A Strong Partner in Alsea
Alsea is one of the largest food and beverage operators in Latin America and Europe. The company operates over 1,800 Starbucks stores across 12 markets, including Mexico, Spain, and Argentina, and is a leading operator of fast food, coffee shops, casual dining, and full-service restaurants. Alsea’s strong operational experience has been instrumental in Starbucks’ success across the region, including Colombia, where the brand has become a staple for coffee lovers.
Honoring Colombian Coffee Farmers
As Starbucks continues to grow in Colombia, it remains deeply connected to the country’s coffee-growing roots. Colombian coffee has long been a cornerstone of Starbucks’ most popular blends, including its signature espresso roast. Starbucks sources a significant portion of its coffee beans from Colombian farmers, who are integral to the company’s global supply chain.
Brady Brewer, CEO of Starbucks International, expressed gratitude to the local farmers and partners who have contributed to the brand’s success in the region. “Colombian coffees have been the cornerstone of many of Starbucks’ most popular coffee roasts around the world. As we celebrate 10 years of coffee and human connection in Colombia, we extend our deepest gratitude to the local coffee farmers who grow our beans, our green apron partners who serve their communities with pride, and our loyal customers who have embraced the Starbucks Experience.”
Brewer also emphasized the importance of Colombia to Starbucks’ global growth strategy: “Our future is bright in Colombia, where our partners will continue to deliver exceptional coffee with the passion and expertise that only Starbucks can offer. We remain committed to deepening our relationships with local farmers, investing in sustainable practices, and expanding our presence to reach more communities.”
The Road Ahead for Starbucks in Colombia
Looking ahead, Starbucks aims to continue its growth trajectory in Colombia by introducing new store formats designed to meet evolving customer preferences. This includes smaller, neighborhood-focused stores and drive-thru locations, which have become increasingly popular. In addition to expanding its physical presence, Starbucks plans to further invest in digital innovation to enhance the customer experience, offering more personalized services through its mobile app and rewards program.
Sustainability remains a key focus for Starbucks in Colombia and around the world. The company is actively working on reducing its carbon footprint by adopting renewable energy solutions, minimizing waste, and creating environmentally friendly packaging options. As part of its broader sustainability goals, Starbucks is committed to making its coffee supply chain more sustainable, ensuring that every cup of coffee served in Colombia and beyond is sourced responsibly.
As Starbucks celebrates this important milestone in Colombia, its leadership is confident that the brand’s legacy of delivering exceptional coffee experiences will only grow stronger in the years to come. Through continued investment in both people and infrastructure, Starbucks aims to strengthen its connection with Colombian communities and uphold its promise of providing high-quality coffee in a sustainable and meaningful way.