Starbucks is a global coffee company that operates over 19,000 stores worldwide. It started as a small coffee bean roaster in Seattle in 1971. Under new leadership in the 1980s, Starbucks expanded and pioneered the coffee shop concept. Today it sells coffee, tea, food items and coffee brewing equipment across 62 countries. Starbucks positions itself as an upscale brand that provides customers with a unique experience in its stores. It focuses on high quality coffee and customer service to drive its continued global success.