starbucks entering foreign markets case study

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Starbucks International Strategy - A Case Study for Global Success

Ever since Starbucks opened its first store outside North America in Tokyo in 1996, the coffee giant has relentlessly pursued global expansion . Today, Starbucks has over 32,000 stores spanning more than 80 countries worldwide, successfully spreading its coffee culture on a global scale. At the heart of Starbucks' phenomenal international business success lies a strategic multi-domestic approach that balances maintaining a consistent global brand with adeptly adapting to local cultures.

Through rigorous market research, cultural sensitivity, strategic partnerships, and premium positioning, Starbucks has seamlessly integrated into diverse international markets while retaining its core identity. This case study examines the key components of Starbucks international strategy, including cultural adaptation, strategic expansion phases, partnership models, and lessons that can be drawn from its international success. The systematic and thoughtful approach demonstrates how consistent brand execution combined with local customization can pave the way for global triumph.

Starbucks' Multidomestic Strategy

The framework that best describes Starbucks' internationalization approach is the multi-domestic strategy. As per this strategy, companies focus on individual foreign markets, treating each market as a separately competitive arena. It emphasizes low integration and high responsiveness.

For Starbucks, this has meant tailoring its products, marketing campaigns, store designs and operations to suit the unique preferences and customs of each local market. While maintaining consistency in quality, branding and customer experience core, it delegates decision-making powers to local franchisees. This allows them to adapt menus, aesthetic elements and promotional activities to match the local customer psyche.

Market Entry Strategies

When entering new markets, Starbucks uses three broad strategies - wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint ventures and licensing. Wholly owned stores give it full control in developed markets with sufficient market understanding like the US, and Canada.

Joint ventures allow leveraging local partner's networks and expertise to establish a foothold in relatively new markets. A prominent case is its joint venture with a Chinese company for China operations.

Licensing is used for quick expansion by granting local partners rights to use the Starbucks brand and set up stores as franchisees. Royalty and fee-based models require low investment while increasing footprint. These tailored entry modes have supported Starbucks' phased globalization process.

Cultural Sensitivity and Customization

Upon entering new markets, Starbucks conducts extensive research to gain cultural insights before store operations even begin. The brand meticulously analyzes local coffee drinking habits, social norms, and economic conditions to understand nuanced preferences. This data-driven approach informs strategic decisions on store layouts, menu customization, and marketing tactics tailored to the host country.

For example, in Japan, Starbucks offers matcha-infused beverages and traditional Japanese decor derived from research revealing local tea-drinking traditions. In China, Starbucks embraces the "ganbei" culture by creating a welcoming environment for social gatherings aligned with drinking customs. Regional preferences are also respected through customized food items—China sees xiaolongbao dumplings while India indulges in masala chai lattes.

By thoughtfully integrating localized flavors, Starbucks seamlessly blends into diverse coffee cultures while maintaining the consistent quality expected of the premium brand. This cultural sensitivity enables the establishment of an authentic local presence, resonating deeply with consumers and expediting market penetration. International success is founded upon such adaptive strategies embracing rather than confronting local identities.

Strategic Partnerships and Co-Owned Stores

Strategic partnerships with local enterprises are another cornerstone of Starbucks' international growth model. Such alliances confer several advantages—joint ventures leverage local expertise, gain government approvals rapidly, and share risks associated with new markets.

Notable examples include the 1998 partnership with Sazaby Café in Japan granting entry into a market protective of domestic firms. In China, collaborations with Kong Group and Maxim's Caterers facilitated swift expansion capitalizing on local supply chains. Most recently, Starbucks joined hands with Tata Group to spearhead robust growth across India leveraging the conglomerate's operational experience.

Co-owned stores following the joint venture model account for one-third of Starbucks' international presence. Local partners provide in-depth cultural understanding while Starbucks delivers consistent brand qualities. Such symbiotic relationships accelerate internationalization by overcoming regulatory hurdles through political familiarity and minimizing liability in uncertain environments. Successful partnerships exemplify mutual growth stemming from shared knowledge and aspirations.

Premium Positioning and Consistent Quality

Despite localized adaptations, Starbucks retains a notable premium positioning worldwide through the consistent execution of its brand. Stores exude sleek minimalism broadcast globally through meticulous design standards. Barista training manuals impart uniform customer service skills across borders to complement the quality drinking experience.

Most distinctively, product sourcing ensures coffee excellence irrespective of location. Green coffee beans are sourced sustainably from over 30 countries and then roasted in seven global processing plants to an identical profile. This commitment to quality justifies slightly higher prices while differentiating the Starbucks experience. Loyal patrons trust consistent flavors upon each international visit, reinforced by a premium brand image.

Globally standardized processes streamline operations for multinational firms yet risk cultural insensitivity. Starbucks balances such trade-offs through its multi-domestic approach—autonomous subsidiaries complement centralized quality controls yielding localization without compromising integrity. Premium branding and attention to detail regardless of borders bolster brand equity on a global scale .

Strategic Expansion Stages

Starbucks' international growth has unfolded strategically in stages, continually adapting its model to diverse conditions in new frontiers. Initial steps focused on contiguous expansion throughout North America and Europe utilizing company-operated stores. Entry into more complex Asian markets saw the rise of adaptive joint ventures and strategic local partnerships.

Most recently, emerging economies present immense opportunities alongside challenges requiring inventive solutions. India saw customized training programs while China leveraged mobile and delivery services to accommodate urbanization. Lessons from each phase cultivate more sophisticated strategies, preserving Starbucks' competitive advantage amidst disruptive global dynamics.

The multi-phased journey reflects an evolutionary approach, not passive diffusion. Careful strategic planning and experimentation have accelerated learning curves, solving problems before widespread proliferation. Cohesive long-term visions balance short-term wins, prioritizing sustainable partnerships over rapid numbers. Starbucks embraces diverse conditions rather than imposing standard blueprints, catalyzing tailored prosperity in every market.

Keys to International Success

Starbucks' case provides valuable insights for brands venturing overseas. Internationalization demands considering local markets as unique rather than homogeneous replicas—deep cultural understanding precedes standardized systems. Strategic alliances confer benefits unavailable to independent operations such as local relationships increasing trust from skeptical markets.

Consistency distinguishes premium brands yet risks cultural detachment—the delicate balance respects local identities amid consistent qualities. Thoughtful long-term visions navigate complexity better than imitations focusing on short-term gains. Success stems from integrating rather than confronting foreign environments by capitalizing on diverse contributions. International growth necessitates agility, learning evolving alongside expanding frontiers.

Current Positioning and Future Outlook

Today Starbucks is a globally recognized brand with a respected image of consistent quality and feel-good customer experience across 80+ nations. However, constantly shifting competitive dynamics and evolving consumer preferences pose new tests.

While Starbucks is well-poised to capture opportunities in still untapped developing geographies leveraging its learnings, local economic volatilities and rising indie cafe trends can impede future plans. Developing new service formats like drive-thrus, mobile ordering, and expanded delivery also becomes critical.

Sustaining differentiation through the premiumization of beverages, newer format stores, innovative loyalty programs and deeper forays in coffee education will determine Starbucks' longevity. Overall, its consistent strategy of blending global vision with local insights wields it an advantage for continued worldwide growth.

In conclusion, Starbucks provides an exemplary case study on designing and implementing a successful international strategy. The keys to its global dominance have been its multi-domestic approach balancing standardization with localisation, research-backed cultural sensitivity, strategic partnerships , consistent branding and marketing effectiveness.

Most significantly, its ability to thoughtfully adapt products, menus, designs, and communications as per every unique market setting while staying true to quality and experience mantras, earned it loyal customer communities worldwide. If replicated judiciously, such well-rounded strategies can become globally replicable models for other aspiring brands.

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• International Marketing

Starbucks’ International Strategy: A Comprehensive Analysis

• January 25, 2024
• LinkedIn 12

Table of Contents

Unveiling the success of starbucks’ international strategy, starbucks’ adaptability to diverse cultures, multi-domestic strategy: balancing local responsiveness and global integration, factors contributing to starbucks’ international success, starbucks’ expansion phases and emerging markets, lessons learned and future outlook, faqs about starbucks’ international strategy.

In the heart of Seattle, Washington, a small coffee shop named Starbucks opened its doors in 1971, offering a haven for coffee enthusiasts seeking an exceptional cup of joe. Little did they know that this humble beginning would transform into a global phenomenon, with over 32,000 stores spanning over 80 countries , serving billions of customers annually (Schultz, 2019). Starbucks’ remarkable international expansion stands as a testament to its astute strategy , unwavering commitment to quality, and ability to adapt to diverse cultures worldwide.

Starbucks’ international strategy, dubbed the “multi-domestic approach,” strikes a delicate balance between global standardization and local responsiveness . This strategy recognizes the importance of maintaining a consistent brand identity across all locations while simultaneously tailoring offerings to meet local preferences. Starbucks has successfully navigated this delicate balance by delegating decision-making to local franchisees, adapting menu items, and customizing marketing campaigns (Keegan, 2019).

A prime example of Starbucks’ adaptability is evident in its Japanese stores, where it offers matcha-infused beverages and traditional Japanese décor to resonate with local tastes and customs (Nishiyama, 2023). In China, Starbucks has embraced the concept of “social drinking,” creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages customers to linger and socialize (Sang, 2018). This cultural sensitivity has been instrumental in Starbucks’ success in these markets , demonstrating its ability to connect with customers on a deeper level.

Key factors contributing to Starbucks’ international success include its premium positioning, strong brand identity, and customer-centric approach. The company has consistently maintained its premium brand image , charging slightly higher prices than its competitors, while simultaneously offering a unique and differentiated customer experience (Berman, 2018). Starbucks’ strong brand identity is evident in its sleek store designs, recognizable logos, and loyal customer base.

Starbucks’ commitment to customer satisfaction has been a driving force behind its success. The company has consistently invested in training its baristas to deliver exceptional customer service , ensuring a consistent and welcoming experience across all locations (Nishiyama, 2023). Additionally, Starbucks has embraced social responsibility initiatives, such as fair trade practices and sustainable sourcing, further strengthening its brand reputation and attracting socially conscious consumers.

Starbucks’ international expansion journey has unfolded in distinct phases, with its initial focus on North America followed by a foray into Europe and Asia. The company has faced challenges and opportunities along the way, particularly in emerging markets such as China and India, where it has partnered with local companies to gain a foothold and adapt to local regulations (Schultz, 2019).

Starbucks’ global strategy reflects its understanding of the intricate interplay between local customs and global trends. By balancing local responsiveness with global integration, Starbucks has successfully captured the hearts and palates of coffee enthusiasts worldwide . As the company continues to expand into new markets , it will undoubtedly face new challenges and opportunities. However, with its proven track record of adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and strategic decision-making, Starbucks is well-positioned to continue its remarkable global journey.

In its relentless pursuit of global domination, Starbucks has mastered the art of cultural sensitivity, seamlessly blending its core brand identity with local customs and preferences to create a truly inviting and authentic experience for its patrons worldwide. This deep cultural understanding has been instrumental in Starbucks’ remarkable success in expanding into diverse markets, from the traditional tea-drinking culture of Japan to the vibrant coffee scene of Italy.

Harnessing Regional Flavors and Traditions

One of Starbucks’ most effective strategies for adapting to local cultures is its incorporation of regional ingredients, flavors, and design elements into its international stores. In Japan, for instance, Starbucks has introduced matcha-infused beverages, a nod to the country’s deep-rooted tea culture. Similarly, in France, the company has introduced Vienesse coffee, as well as foie gras and brioche sandwiches.

Beyond beverages and pastries, Starbucks has also embraced local design elements to create a sense of place in its international locations . In China, Starbucks stores often feature traditional Chinese décor, such as red lanterns and bamboo accents, while in Korea, stores may feature Korean-style seating arrangements and traditional artwork .

Understanding Local Customs and Traditions

Beyond menu items and décor, Starbucks’ cultural sensitivity extends to understanding and respecting local customs and traditions . In China, where social gatherings are a significant part of the culture, Starbucks has created a welcoming atmosphere that encourages customers to linger and socialize. In Japan, where politeness and respect are paramount, Starbucks staff is trained to greet customers with a bow and maintain a respectful demeanor.

Balancing Global Standardization with Local Responsiveness

Starbucks’ ability to balance global standardization with local responsiveness is a key factor behind its success in diverse markets. The company maintains a core set of brand standards , ensuring consistency in quality and customer experience across all locations . However, it also delegates decision-making to local franchisees, allowing them to tailor offerings to meet local preferences. This approach allows Starbucks to leverage its global brand while adapting to the unique nuances of each market.

In India, for instance, Starbucks has adapted its menu to incorporate chai , a traditional Indian tea, as well as local bakery items. In the United Arab Emirates, the company has partnered with a local coffee roaster to source premium Arabica beans, catering to the region’s preference for strong coffee. By striking this delicate balance, Starbucks has successfully navigated the cultural landscape of each market , winning over new customers and solidifying its position as a global coffee leader.

Starbucks’ international expansion strategy is characterized by its ability to strike a delicate balance between global standardization and local responsiveness, a concept known as the multi-domestic strategy. This approach allows Starbucks to maintain its core brand identity and operational standards while simultaneously adapting its offerings and marketing strategies to meet the unique preferences and customs of each market.

Delegation of Decision-Making

At the heart of Starbucks’ multi-domestic strategy lies the delegation of decision-making power to local franchisees . This localization approach empowers local partners to understand and respond to the specific needs of their respective markets. By giving franchisees the autonomy to adapt menu items, design elements, and marketing campaigns, Starbucks ensures that its presence in each market feels authentic and resonates with local tastes.

Examples of Local Adaptation

In India, where tea is a deeply ingrained cultural beverage, Starbucks has introduced chai-infused drinks and partnered with local tea suppliers to offer authentic Indian tea experiences. In Japan, the company has incorporated matcha-flavored beverages and traditional Japanese décor to cater to the country’s tea-drinking culture . These examples demonstrate Starbucks’ ability to seamlessly integrate local flavors and customs into its global brand identity .

Customizing Marketing Campaigns

Starbucks’ marketing efforts are equally tailored to local markets. In China, where social gatherings are commonplace, Starbucks has launched campaigns that promote its stores as a gathering place for friends and families. In Japan, where politeness and respect are highly valued, Starbucks has emphasized its commitment to providing a welcoming and customer-centric experience .

Balancing Standardization with Responsiveness

The multi-domestic strategy presents a delicate balancing act , requiring Starbucks to maintain a consistent brand identity while adapting to local preferences. The company achieves this balance by setting clear global standards for quality, service, and customer experience , while simultaneously delegating decision-making on non-essential aspects to local franchisees.

Starbucks’ remarkable international expansion is not merely a matter of luck or coincidence. The company’s success can be attributed to a combination of strategic decisions, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience .

Premium Positioning and Strong Brand Identity

Starbucks has successfully positioned itself as a premium coffee brand , charging slightly higher prices than its competitors. This premium positioning has allowed the company to maintain a consistent and differentiated customer experience across all international locations. Starbucks’ strong brand identity, characterized by its iconic logo, sleek store designs, and consistent quality, has further solidified its position as a global leader in the coffee industry (Berman, 2018).

Consistent Quality and Brand Standards

Despite operating in diverse markets, Starbucks has maintained a high level of consistency in terms of product quality and brand standards . The company’s global quality assurance program ensures that its coffee beans are sourced sustainably and roasted to a consistent standard. Additionally, Starbucks’ training programs for baristas help maintain consistent customer service and beverage quality across all locations (Keegan, 2019).

Effective Marketing Strategies and Social Responsibility Initiatives

Starbucks has effectively leveraged marketing campaigns to connect with customers and enhance its brand image. The company’s “Share a Cup of Happiness” campaign, for instance, tapped into the emotional appeal of coffee as a social and cultural beverage. Starbucks has also demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility, supporting initiatives such as fair trade practices and environmental sustainability . These efforts have further bolstered the company’s reputation and attracted socially conscious consumers (Nishiyama, 2023).

Starbucks’ international expansion has unfolded in distinct phases, reflecting the company’s evolving strategy and market opportunities. From its initial focus on North America, Starbucks has steadily expanded its presence across Europe, Asia, and more recently, emerging markets like China and India. Each phase has brought unique challenges and opportunities, requiring the company to adapt its approach and leverage strategic partnerships to succeed in these diverse markets.

Early Expansion in North America: Laying the Foundation

Starbucks’ international journey began in 1996 with its first store in Japan , marking the company’s foray beyond its home market of Seattle, Washington. This initial expansion was followed by a steady growth in North America, with Starbucks establishing a strong foothold in the United States and Canada. During this phase, the company focused on replicating its successful formula of premium coffee, comfortable ambiance, and exceptional customer service .

European Expansion: Adapting to Local Tastes

In 2000, Starbucks entered the European market, targeting major cities like London, Paris, and Milan. However, the company faced challenges adapting its American-centric approach to the European market , where coffee culture is deeply rooted and preferences vary significantly from country to country. To address these challenges, Starbucks adopted a more localized approach, tailoring its menu items and store designs to suit local tastes and preferences. For instance, in Italy, Starbucks introduced espresso-based beverages and partnered with local coffee roasters to source premium Italian beans.

Asian Expansion: Navigating Diverse Markets

Starbucks’ expansion into Asia presented another set of challenges, with the region encompassing diverse cultures, tastes, and market conditions. In China, Starbucks encountered a market where tea is deeply ingrained in the culture . To cater to local preferences, Starbucks introduced chai lattes and adapted its store designs to incorporate Chinese elements . In India, where coffee consumption is relatively low, Starbucks partnered with local tea companies to offer chai-infused beverages and adapt its menu to align with local tastes.

Emerging Markets: Strategic Partnerships and Cultural Sensitivity

Starbucks’ expansion into emerging markets like China and India has highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity and strategic partnerships . In China, Starbucks has partnered with local conglomerate Alibaba to leverage its e-commerce platform and expand its reach. In India, the company has partnered with Tata Consumer Products , a leading Indian consumer goods company, to gain access to local distribution networks and consumer insights.

Throughout its international expansion, Starbucks has demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance global standardization with local responsiveness, adapting its approach to suit the unique nuances of each market. The company’s success in emerging markets like China and India is a testament to its commitment to cultural sensitivity and its ability to form strategic partnerships that leverage local expertise and resources.

Starbucks’ remarkable international expansion journey has been marked by a series of strategic decisions, cultural adaptations, and strategic partnerships that have propelled the company to become a global coffee giant . As Starbucks continues to expand its reach, it is crucial to reflect on the lessons learned from its past experiences and identify key factors that will shape its future growth.

Key Takeaways from Starbucks’ International Strategy

Throughout its international expansion, Starbucks has accumulated valuable insights that serve as valuable lessons for other businesses seeking to venture into new markets. These lessons include:

• Adaptability and Cultural Sensitivity: Starbucks’ success hinges on its ability to adapt its offerings and marketing strategies to align with local customs and preferences. Understanding the nuances of each market is essential for building a strong brand presence and fostering customer loyalty.
• Balance of Global Standardization and Local Responsiveness: Starbucks has successfully navigated the delicate balance between maintaining global consistency and adapting to local preferences. This requires a multi-domestic strategy that empowers local franchisees to make decisions while adhering to core brand standards.
• Strategic Partnerships: Starbucks has leveraged strategic partnerships to gain access to local expertise, distribution channels, and consumer insights. These partnerships have been instrumental in the company’s success in emerging markets like China and India.
• Commitment to Quality and Customer Experience: Starbucks has consistently maintained its focus on providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service across all international locations. This commitment has been a cornerstone of the company’s success in building a loyal customer base.

Future Outlook and Potential for Further Growth

Starbucks is well-positioned for continued international growth , with over 32,000 stores spanning over 80 countries. The company’s strong brand reputation, customer-centric approach, and ability to adapt to local markets are key factors that will drive its future success.

However, Starbucks faces several challenges in its quest for further international expansion. These challenges include:

• Evolving Consumer Preferences: The coffee industry is constantly evolving, with changing consumer preferences and the emergence of new competitors. Starbucks will need to remain agile and adapt its offerings to stay ahead of the curve.
• Economic and Political Factors: Economic and political instability in certain markets can pose significant challenges for Starbucks’ operations and growth prospects. The company will need to carefully assess these risks and tailor its expansion strategies accordingly.
• Competition from Local Coffee Brands: Starbucks faces stiff competition from local coffee brands that possess a deep understanding of their respective markets. The company will need to differentiate itself through its brand image, product quality, and customer service to maintain its competitive edge.

Despite these challenges, Starbucks is poised to remain a dominant player in the global coffee industry . The company’s strong brand, customer focus, and adaptability will continue to drive its growth in new markets. Starbucks is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in the coffee industry, such as the increasing demand for specialty coffee and the growing popularity of mobile ordering and delivery.

Starbucks’ international strategy is a multi-domestic strategy, which means that the company adapts its products, marketing, and operations to local preferences in each market it enters. This approach allows Starbucks to maintain its core brand identity while resonating with customers in diverse cultures.

Several factors contribute to Starbucks’ international success, including: • Cultural Mindfulness : Starbucks carefully considers local customs, tastes, and preferences to tailor its offerings and marketing strategies accordingly. This cultural sensitivity has enabled the company to gain a foothold in markets with varying coffee cultures. • Market Research : Starbucks conducts extensive market research to gain a deep understanding of each market’s unique characteristics, consumer demographics, and competitive landscape. This data-driven approach informs strategic decisions and ensures that Starbucks’ offerings are relevant to local customers. • Local Partnerships : Starbucks forms strategic partnerships with local companies and experts to gain access to market insights, distribution channels, and cultural understanding. These partnerships have been instrumental in Starbucks’ success in emerging markets like China and India. • Strong Brand Integrity : Despite adapting to local preferences, Starbucks maintains a strong and consistent brand identity across all international locations. This consistency reinforces the brand’s reputation for quality, innovation, and customer service.

No, Starbucks is not using a translational strategy. A translational strategy involves imposing a standardized approach across all international markets, regardless of local differences. Starbucks’ multi-domestic strategy, on the other hand, emphasizes adaptability and customization to suit local preferences .

Starbucks employs three strategies for market entry: 1. Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries : Starbucks directly owns and operates its stores in these markets, allowing for complete control over operations and brand consistency. 2. Joint Ventures : Starbucks partners with local companies to jointly own and operate stores, leveraging local expertise and market knowledge. 3. Licensing : Starbucks grants local companies the right to use its brand and operate stores in exchange for royalties and fees . This approach expands Starbucks’ reach without the need for direct investment.

Starbucks’ multi-domestic strategy has been a key driver of its global success by enabling the company to seamlessly integrate into diverse markets while maintaining its core brand identity. The company’s commitment to cultural mindfulness, market research, local partnerships, and strong brand integrity has allowed it to cultivate a loyal customer base worldwide.

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Home » Management Case Studies » Case Study on Marketing Strategy: Starbucks Entry to China

Case Study on Marketing Strategy: Starbucks Entry to China

Starbucks is one of the largest coffee chains in the World . The company has a unique style and atmosphere in their coffee houses. We chose China because it is the world’s most populous country with over 1.3 billion people live there and second-largest country by land area. After 1978, the country’s economy were underwent dramatic changes which involved such relief as permission for entrepreneurs to start up their own business and opening the country for foreign investment. It is obviously that Starbucks managers decided to take advantage of such opportunity to expand their business into new region. To evaluate Chinese market the company used several steps of analyses.

Who might be interested in buying coffee in China?

To introduce the Starbucks brand the company begun to distribute coffee for free to guests in several Beijing’s hotels in 1994. This initiative indicated that there was a strong demand for their products, particularly among foreigners in China. Local people, who strived to imitate the Western lifestyle, also showed interest for coffee drinking. In addition young generation were enchantment by brands and products from the West. These factors led Starbuck’s managers to learn and understand more about business climate in that Asia country.

Next step for Starbucks was to determine financial and economic conditions of China. Company’s managers were aware that Chinese Gross Domestic Product (GDP) continuously grew approximately 9 % on an average and a GDP per capita was US$3.800. All these factors led to rising income of middle class. That was undoubted advantage for entering Chinese market for Starbucks.

At the third level of screening Starbucks faced with political restrictions. China is highly bureaucratic country with difficult processes of getting permissions and sanctions to start and run business. In order to avoid these challenges the company built and maintain firm relationship with Chinese local partners as well as government officials. In addition, Starbucks Soong Ching-Ling Foundation received $5 million donation from Starbucks to support education in country’s poorest regions.

The fourth level of screening involved socio-cultural forces. It showed the biggest challenges for Starbucks, because of the old tradition of tea drinking in China. At the beginning managers didn’t know how to accustomed Chinese to drink and appreciate coffee. To acquaint employees and Chinese executives with coffee drinking experience Starbucks provided different training programs for them in which they learned more about coffee and Starbucks’ culture. The same way the company taught customers about different flavors and types of coffee. Another aspect was Chinese shopping behaviour which was different from the US market. People in China spent main slice of their monthly budget on foods. This also led to success for the company.

The fifth level of China screening was focused on competitive forces. As we mentioned before China is a tea country and the share of coffee was low. Little or no competition for Starbucks was considered as an advantage. Chinese people were familiar only with one international brand which was Nestle’s Nescafe. However, Nescafe is not a coffee house like Starbucks. As regards local competitions, it was a well-known Chinese brand Li Shen and Japanese brand Zhen Gou Coffee.

Starbucks’ Entry to Chinese Market

Although Starbucks encountered several challenges in the process of entering into Chinese market. Starbucks had successfully expanded its business in over 20 large or medium sized cities of China, and opened about 560 storefronts in these cities by 2012. The astonishing achievement owes to its careful marketing assessment and various marketing strategies in different periods. These strategies mainly refer to 2 different modes of entering foreign markets: licensed agreement and joint venture.

Licensed agreement

In 1998, Starbucks adopted the mode of licensing agreement to license its Chinese partner (Beijing Mei Da), a wholesale distribution company to supply coffee beans to some selected hotels and restaurants. Starbucks realized that local partners can have the best understanding of local cultures customers and some related laws. and they have already established good relationship with local government, so it was easy to obtain the permissions and sanctions required to start and operate business in a bureaucratic country like China. Moreover, Starbucks could also maintain a high standard on the control of production, and achieve a ideal revenue in Chinese market. So licensed agreement was a optimal option for Starbucks to enter into a booming China’s market in the mid-1990s.

Joint venture

Starbucks formed a joint venture with different partners at different times when it entered into Chinese market. Starbucks achieved considerable knowledge about the Chinese market conditions and then began to open Starbucks stores in China. The company adopted a strategy of having three different partners to enter different regions in Chinese market. In September 1998, Starbucks entered China under a licensing agreement with Beijing Mei Da Coffee Co.Ltd, which was as their first partner. In 1999, Starbucks formed a joint venture with the Taiwan based Uni-President Group and opened stores in Shanghai. In 2000, Starbucks entered into a joint venture with Mei-Xin International Ltd, it also called “Coffee Concepts Ltd”. It managed the operations in the region of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Macau, Guangzhou, and other parts of southern China.

There are some advantages for Starbucks with joint venture to enter Chinese market. First of all, Starbucks choose a good local partner to form a joint venture which can help it better understand the local laws and negotiate better with the authorities. It is beneficial for Starbucks to obtain required permissions and sanctions so that it can be opened easily. Secondly, local partners know Chinese market condition better than Starbucks; therefore, it is effective and efficient method for Starbucks to adopt a few localization strategies to satisfy different regions of customers. Last but not least, joint venture is a good way for Starbucks to reduce operation expenditure, and it also helps to reduce risks in Chinese market.

Marketing and Pricing Strategies

“We want our customers to recognize that we’re not coming to China just to make money, we are coming to China to build an enduring company that they can trust and they can view as one of their own”. – Howard Schultz

Starbucks modified their menu and tried to localize its brand name by selling some food items according to the choice of the Chinese people and selling different kind of tea. They also changed their marketing and pricing strategies based on needs for the Chinese market.

When Starbucks started in China, one of the biggest challenges it faced was to make the consumers accustomed to drink and appreciating coffee. According to analysts, compared to other countries in which Starbucks operated this task was more difficult in China because of the age old tradition of tea drinking in the country, where coffee was seen as nothing less than a kind of Western invasion.

Starbucks, like any other multinational company, had to go through the dilemma of choosing whether to follow Chinese traditional tea or take a big risk of following Starbucks’ culture of promoting premium coffee. The company chose to opt for its own culture and sell the idea of the ‘Coffee drinking experience’.

Starbucks started by projecting the stores as a place for social gathering. The stores were also larger in area than the ones in the US, as the idea was to make the customers feel at home, relax and spend more time there.

Similarly the company took initiatives to teach the customers about the different types of coffees and how to distinguish between flavors. The customers were given some samples to smell as well as sip and then describe their experience. At times if the customers did not enjoy the sample, the store employees asked them to come back again later for another ‘tasting’ session or they offered them some other drink that they enjoyed. They also spoke to the customers about the positive effects drinking coffee. For example, they spoke about how drinking coffee helped to change their mood and how it was good to have coffee in the morning.

Localization Strategies

Normally Starbucks follows a high standard technique to maintain its stores worldwide. But in the case of China it adapted some strategies influenced by local culture and market conditions to gain Chinese people’s trust and confidence.

Small changes were made in the texture, menu and store layout just to match with Chinese culture and food preferences. Within few months of opening the coffee stores, the company started observing that coffee culture is different for Chinese people than US, where people are very busy in their daily lives and they just grab their coffee and leave, but in China coffee stores were more like a place for social gathering where they can sit and talk for hours with their friends and families. Therefore, according to the market needs they had to square bigger stores. In the US a normal size of Starbcks store is about 1,200 to 1,500 square feet whereas in China they started opening stores bigger than 2,000 square feet.

It was observed that the Chinese also liked to have some food along with their drink. In response to that Starbucks started offering some popular Chinese foods like, curry puffs, moon cakes, and traditional cookies.

Starbucks incorporates another localize strategy in every country they go, by modifying the name of Starbucks to suit the local language, like in China they Changed the name to ‘Xing Bake’ where ‘Xing’ represents ‘Star’ and ‘Bake’ was pronounced as ‘bucks’.

Starbucks accepted the reality that maximum people in China like tea more than coffee though young generation is more likely to go for coffee. So they decided different menu for different stores in China. In Shanghai and westernized, the stores a standard menu where they served coffee. And in Beijing stores they introduced different tea-based drinks like coffee-flavored milk tea, green tea-flavored frappuccino etc. to attract more people.

Promotional and Pricing Strategies

To promote themselves in China the company chose a different way. It was mostly depended on the people to spread goodwill through word of mouth than commercial advertisements and media products. Their knowledge, organized way of business left a good impression on customers’ mind. The customers were willing to pay a higher price for the brand name. As a result young, urban Chinese, who solely started to associate visiting Starbucks or being seen with a Starbucks cup, as a symbol of social status. They tried to build their reputation in terms of, product quality, customer service, employee relationship, etc.

To enhance the name of “Starbucks” they had different strategies. From professional to students they had different ways to attract them. They started selling latest DVD’s, free access of internet and also use to provide different wireless services so people can feel it like their 3rd home.

Starbucks uses the highest quality coffee beans from ideal coffee producing climates. They helped Chinese farmers, made good relationships with their workers and they also made a good reputation in the supply market .As a result of good reputation, good quality and high price they were able to attract people and also maintain their luxury appeal. The company priced its coffees at around US$ 6 for a cup, which was considered by analysts as too costly, even though it was too costly by Chinese standards but they decided to continue with it because in China, high price was directly associated with quality.

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Starbucks is a coffee chain founded in Seatle, USA, in 1971. The company is famous for its premium coffee accompanied by top-notch customer service.  With a mission to inspire one person, one cup, one neighbourhood at a time, Starbucks not only changed the way coffee is consumed in the USA but also gradually introduce the Western coffee culture to multiple parts of the world.  As of 2020, there are 33,833 Starbucks stores all over the globe, serving more than 100 million customers. 1

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What is Starbucks International Strategy?

A high level of local responsiveness indicates a business's tendency to adapt its products and services to local needs. 

Multi-domestic strategy is characterised by...

Wholly-owned subsidiaries strategy is carried out when the company has extensive knowledge of the market.

Which type of market entry strategy allows the company to quickly expand in a specific country?

When the company has limited knowledge about a market, it should enter the market using...

The international success of Starbucks is put down to its cultural mindfulness and intensive  research  of the host market. 

A focus on adaption means that Starbucks can ignore brand integrity and standards. 

Starbucks' products are customized to suit local tastes and preferences.  

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One contributing factor to this major success is Starbucks' international strategy and its ability to adapt to each market. In this article, we'll learn more about how Starbucks' internationalization process, including the overall global penetration method, the type of market entry , as well as pricing strategy .

What is Starbucks' international strategy?

Bartlett & Ghoshal Matrix is a framework for determining the type of international strategy pursued by a business based on two criteria: global integration and local responsiveness.

A high level of global integration means that the business wants to try to reduce costs as much as possible through standardized products and economies of scale. On the other hand , a high level of local responsiveness indicates a business's tendency to adapt its products and services to local needs. T hese two factors create four types of international strategy : global strategy, transnational strategy, international strategy, multi-domestic strategies . 2

The multi-domestic strategy is adopted by Starbucks when expanding overseas. It is characterized by low integration and high responsiveness. Accordingly, the company tailors its products to the specific needs of the local customers. T he structure of the organization is highly decentralized, which allows subsidiaries to operate autonomously and independently from the headquarter. 3

Figure 1. Types of International Strategy

Starbucks market entry strategy

When it comes to market entry strategy, Starbucks employs three strategies: wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint ventures, and licensing:

The w holly-owned subsidiaries strategy is carried out when the company has extensive knowledge of the market, such as that in the US or Canada. Joint ventures come in handy when Starbucks wants to initiate business in a new market. Finally, t he licensing strategy allows the coffee chain to quickly expand in a specific country. 3

The Asia Pacific has always been a fruitful market for Starbucks due to the increasing young population who are eager to adopt a Western lifestyle:

In Japan , Starbucks set up a joint venture with Sazaby League Ltd - a local designer and retailer of handbags, clothing and accessories which also operates restaurants and coffee shops under the name Afternoon Tea. The partnership starting in 1995 has allowed Starbucks to win over Japan, making it one of the company's top-performing markets internationally. Since 2014, the company has taken full control of a Japanese Subsidiary for $ 914M. 4

In China, Starbucks made its debut under a licensing agreement with Beijing Mei Da Coffee Co. Ltd in 1998. In the following years, the company expanded its influence by forming joint ventures with Uni-President Group and Mei-Xin International Ltd to operate in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Macau, and other parts of southern China.

Starbucks international pricing strategy

Starbucks adopts value-based pricing for its products all across the globe.

Value-based pricing is the value perceived by the customer rather than its actual costs.

However, most Starbucks customers - who belong to the middle and upper social class are happy to pay the extra price for the premium coffee and top-notch customer service. This pricing strategy has allowed the company to maximize its income while building a premium brand image to differentiate itself from the competitors.

The price of Starbucks not only varies based on the size and type of coffee but also on the country or region it operates in. This variation can be narrowed down to various factors such as spending power, tariffs, exchange rates, local market needs, and competition in different countries. 6

Figure 2 shows the price of the same Starbucks coffee in different parts of the world (in £ equivalent):

Figure 2. Price for the same cup of Starbucks coffee around the world, based on Voucherbox

Prices are typically higher for countries outside the US. For example, Bern in Switzerland has the highest price Starbucks coffee with Cappuccino costs £ 4.58 a cup compared to the UK whose price is £ 2.45. Bangkok's Starbucks costs the least at around £ 2.37 for a cappuccino. Between different types of coffee, there's an average price difference of 20-30 cents.

An analysis of Starbucks international strategy

Starbucks' success in its internationalization process comes down to its cultural mindfulness and intensive research of the host market.

In China, tea is considered the national drink. Thus, to break into the market, the company has included a lot of products made from green tea on its menu. As people became more familiar with the brand, they began to introduce more coffee flavours to promote the American coffee-drinking culture. Knowing the Chinese like to sit in a large group, Starbucks has also designed tables that can be put together to accommodate more people.

Local partnerships also contribute enormously to the success of Starbucks' internationalization process.

Starbucks partnered with Beijing Mei Da with penetrating the northern Chinese market. In the east, it associates with Uni-President and in the South, Maxim Caterers. Through these partners, Starbucks learns to adapt and expand its product portfolio to better suit the local customers' preferences.

While focusing on adaptation, Starbucks maintains strong brand integrity . It sets a clear standard of how the products and brand image should be perceived by the customers. As a result, those who wish to become Starbucks partners must adhere to its explicit guidelines. In addition, all baristas in the host country have to undertake the same training as those in the US.

Starbucks international strategy relies on low integration and high responsiveness (multi-domestic), which is best reflected in Entry Modes and Pricing Strategies. The goal is to spread Starbucks' coffee culture while adapting to local tastes and preferences. Instead of competing with global brands, Starbucks establishes itself as a friendly choice among the many food and beverage options in the host country. This has endeared the brand to the local people and allowed it to enjoy global success.

Starbucks International Strategy - Key takeaways

• Starbucks is a coffee chain founded in Seattle, USA, in 1971, famous for its premium coffee accompanied by top-notch customer service.
• Starbucks is classified as a multi-domestic company due to the high level of local responsiveness and low level of global integration.
• Starbucks' products are customized to suit local tastes and preferences.
• In terms of market entry, Starbucks adopts three main approaches: wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint ventures, and licensing.
• Value-based pricing is adopted for markets worldwide which contributes to Starbucks premium image.
• Cultural mindfulness, market research , local partnership, and strong brand integrity are critical factors determining the success of Starbucks international strategy.

1. Statista, Number of Starbucks stores worldwide from 2003 to 2021 , 2021.

2. Lars de Bruin, International Business Strategy , 2017.

3. Christine Nyandat, Starbucks International Strategy, 2019.

4. Starbucks Stories & News, Starbucks Poised for Continued Growth in Japan Through Full Ownership of Market , 2014.

5. MBA Knowledge Base, Case Study on Marketing Strategy: Starbucks Entry to China , n.d.

6. Abhiyash Jain, Starbucks prices products on value not cost . Why , 2020.

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Multi-domestic strategy

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Frequently Asked Questions about Starbucks International Strategy

What is Starbucks' international strategy?

Starbucks' internationalisation strategy is a multi-domestic strategy.

Why is Starbucks so successful internationally? 

Cultural mindfulness, market research, local partnership, and strong brand integrity are critical factors determining the success of Starbucks' international strategy. 

Is Starbucks using a transnational strategy? 

No, Starbucks is using a multi-domestic strategy. 

What are the types of international strategies used by Starbucks?

Starbucks employs three strategies for market entry: wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint ventures, and licensing.

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A high level of local responsiveness indicates a business's tendency to adapt its products and services to local needs. 

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How Starbucks Brought Coffee to China

A Case Study of Market Research

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Starbucks has developed an internationalization strategy to enable the company to open stores and franchises in countries across the globe. Market research is at the core of many of the market entry strategies Starbucks is employing. This case study will consider how market research has strengthened Starbucks entry into the Chinese markets.

Starbucks International Business Strategy

Starbucks entry into emerging and developed markets is informed by market research. Starbucks conducted market research to enable a deeper understanding of the Chinese markets, and the way that capitalism functions in the People's Republic of China (PRC). China contains a number of distinct regionally-based markets, a factor that makes market research crucial to launching new stores and franchises in China.

A deep understanding of intellectual property right laws is critical to successful market entry in emerging markets. Starbucks articulated an entry strategy that would address the dominant Chinese markets and that was designed to be as inoffensive with respect to the Chinese culture as possible.

Instead of taking the conventional approach to advertising and promotions—which could have been seen by potential Chinese consumers as attacking their culture of drinking tea—they positioned stores in high-traffic and high visibility locations.

Moreover, Starbucks very deliberately began to bridge the gap between the tea drinking culture and the coffee drinking culture by introducing beverages in the Chinese stores that included local tea-based ingredients.

Market research supported the development of Starbucks' competitive internationalization strategy. The overarching competitive strategy was to create an aspirational brand. Prospective Starbucks customers in China could look forward to what Starbucks refers to as The Third Place experience.

The Starbucks experience conveys status that is highly appealing to those aspiring to Western standards or to climbing the ladder in their own culture. Market research indicates that brand consistency is important to Starbucks' customers. When Starbucks opens a new store in an emerging market like China, the best baristas are sent for the launch and to conduct training of the baristas who will carry on when once the launch has completed.

Market Research Addresses the Emerging Market Political Environment

Market research helped to identify the attributes of capitalism in the Peoples' Republic of China (PRC). The middle class in China has rapidly accepted Western standards as an acceptable standard of the bourgeois class. Moreover, Chinese consumers accept purchases of luxury goods as a means of pursuing quality lifestyles.

Under the influence of Communism, the Chinese considered conspicuous consumption to be decadent or indicative of a lack of a nationalistic orientation. Capitalism in The Peoples' Republic of China supports the status-conscious population that manifests its interest in keeping up with the Jones' through excessive luxury consumption.

The Chinese government's support of luxury consumption is particularly apparent in certain cities in China. The second-tier city of Chengdu serves as a market research case study in Chinese governmental support of capitalism. Chengdu promotes capitalism at a level evidenced by the presence of stores like Louis Vuitton and Cartier in its downtown.

According to the Chengdu Retail Industry Association, stores selling 80 percent of international luxury brands are located in Chengdu, and the city ranks just third in luxury sales after Beijing and Shanghai. It is easy to see how this national orientation toward luxury goods extends to the Starbucks brand, which is characterized by a certain degree of exclusivity.

Market Research Reveals Attributes of Emerging Market Legal Environment

It is essential to understand the intellectual property rights laws and licensing issues when planning market entry in an emerging market. Starbucks has used intellectual protection laws to prevent its business model and brand from being illegally copied in China.

Four years after opening its first café in China in 1999, Starbucks had registered all its major trademarks in China. A number of Chinese businesses have overstepped legal bounds in their efforts to mimic the successful Starbucks model.

The organization and structure of Starbucks' global operations were informed by market research. The organizational strategies employed by Starbucks were derived from Starbucks' experiences in other emerging markets supported an early recognition that China is not one homogeneous market.

The organizational strategies employed by Starbucks addressed the many Chinese markets. The culture dominant in northern China differs radically from the culture in the eastern parts of China, as reflected in the differences in consumer spending power inland which is considerably lower than the spending power in coastal cities.

The complexity of the Chinese markets led to regional partnerships to aid in Starbucks' plans for expansion in China; the partnerships provided consumer insight into Chinese tastes and preferences that helped Starbucks localize to the diverse markets.

• Northern China - a joint venture with Beijing Mei Da coffee company.
• Eastern China - partnered with Taiwan-based Uni-President.
• Southern China - worked with Maxim's Caterers in Hong Kong.

Starbucks' competitive advantage is built on product, service, and brand attributes, many of which have been shown through market research to be important to Starbucks' customers. Western brands have an advantage over local Chinese brands because of a commonly accepted reputation for consistently higher quality products and services, a factor that establishes the Western brands as premium brands in the minds of consumers.

When Western brands attempt to increase market share by cutting prices, they erode the very competitive strategy that gives them an edge in consumer perceptions. Moreover, Western brands cannot effectively maintain a lower pricing strategy than local Chinese brands.

Maintain brand integrity in new markets. Starbucks' global brand is valuable and maintaining brand integrity is a fundamental focus in Starbucks' internationalization efforts. The baristas in China acted as brand ambassadors to help embed the Starbucks culture in the new market and ensure that high standards for customer service and product quality are maintained at each new and established local store.

Starbucks' ability to address changing markets is honed by effective and ongoing market research. Establishing and maintaining a global Starbucks brand does not mean having a global platform or uniform global products. Starbucks marketing strategy in China was based on customization in response to diverse Chinese consumer target segmentation.

Starbucks created extensive consumer taste profile analyses that are sufficiently agile to enable them to change with the market and to create an attractive East meets West product mix. Moreover, the localization effort is sufficiently flexible to permit each store to have the flexibility to choose from a wide beverage portfolio.

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Starbucks’ Global Journey: Internationalization, Challenges, and Brand Positioning

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Starbucks Global Marketing Strategy 2024: A Case Study

Starbucks, the world’s largest coffeehouse chain, has established itself as a global leader in the coffee industry with its innovative marketing strategies. From targeting specific audience segments to expanding its digital presence, Starbucks has consistently evolved its marketing approach to stay ahead of the competition. In this case study, we will examine Starbucks’ marketing strategy for 2024 and explore how the company has successfully built its brand, engaged with customers, and achieved global recognition.

Key Takeaways:

• Starbucks operates six roasteries with tasting rooms and 43 coffee bars.
• In 2010, Starbucks initiated its Starbucks Reserve program for single-origin coffees and high-end coffee shops.
• Starbucks primarily targets the upper economic segment, upper middle class, and upper class consumers.
• The target audience of Starbucks is mainly in the 25-45 age group, urban, health-conscious, and class-conscious consumers.
• Starbucks has over 248K followers on Instagram, 1.1M likes on Facebook, and 161K followers on Twitter.

With a focus on product innovation and strategic brand positioning, Starbucks has consistently pushed the boundaries of the coffee industry. By opening six roasteries with tasting rooms and 43 coffee bars, Starbucks goes beyond just serving coffee; it provides a unique coffee experience to its customers. Through its Starbucks Reserve program, the company showcases single-origin coffees and creates high-end coffee shops to cater to discerning coffee enthusiasts.

Starbucks has successfully captured the attention of the upper economic segment, upper middle class, and upper class consumers, who are willing to pay a premium for quality and status. By strategically locating its coffeehouses in areas with high pedestrian traffic, Starbucks enhances brand visibility and accessibility, further solidifying its market position .

In addition to its physical presence, Starbucks has also leveraged digital marketing strategies to engage with its target audience. With a strong following on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, Starbucks effectively communicates its brand message and creates a sense of community among its customers. The company’s mobile app, which boasts 23.4 million users in the US alone, facilitates easy navigation and purchases, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Starbucks understands the power of word-of-mouth marketing and focuses on providing high-quality customer experiences to generate positive reviews. Additionally, the company invests in advertising, sales promotions, and public relations to improve brand awareness, increase revenue, and gain a larger market share.

Starbucks’ premium pricing strategy has contributed to its success, as consumers perceive high prices to equate to high quality, value, and status within the market. By positioning its products as superior or high-end, Starbucks has successfully created a premium brand image that sets it apart from competitors.

With nearly 30,000 stores globally and a 39.8% share of the coffee market in the US in 2019, Starbucks has firmly cemented its position as a global coffee leader. The company reported revenues of $26.5bn in 2019, demonstrating its financial success. Starbucks’ global marketing budget of around $246m in the fiscal year ending September 2019 highlights its commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the market.

In conclusion, Starbucks’ global marketing strategy for 2024 is built on a strong foundation of product innovation, strategic brand positioning, and customer engagement. By continuously adapting to market trends and consumer expectations, Starbucks has established itself as a powerhouse in the coffee industry, connecting with a diverse range of customers worldwide.

About Starbucks and its Brand Positioning

Starbucks, founded in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker, has become a global sensation with its coffeehouse chain. With almost 16,000 locations in the United States alone and an impressive presence in over 80 countries worldwide, Starbucks has successfully won over the hearts of both coffee enthusiasts and occasional customers.

The company’s brand positioning revolves around offering high-quality coffee and creating a distinct customer experience. Since its inception, Starbucks has been committed to delivering consistency and reliability in its products and services. The iconic logo, featuring a siren with two tails, has remained unchanged and is instantly recognizable.

Recognizing the potential of the coffee industry, Howard Schultz joined Starbucks in 1986, revolutionizing the brand and transforming it into the coffeehouse giant it is today. Starbucks’ mission extends beyond just selling coffee; it aims to inspire and support the human spirit through individual connections and community engagement.

To connect with customers on a deeper level, Starbucks utilizes various marketing campaigns. Examples include the “Red Cup Contest,” which encourages community participation during the holiday season on Instagram, and the “#WhatsYourName” campaign, which promotes inclusivity and respect for diverse customer identities.

Strategic partnerships have also played a significant role in Starbucks’ success. Collaborations such as the promotion of “Taylor’s Latte” with Taylor Swift and alliances with brands like Spotify, Chase, and Lyft have helped broaden Starbucks’ reach and access new markets.

While Starbucks’ marketing efforts have generally been well-received, some campaigns, such as “#SpreadTheCheer” and “Race Together,” faced criticism for not authentically resonating with audiences. However, Starbucks continues to encourage user-generated content through visual aesthetics, engagement initiatives, and user-friendly apps.

As the leader of the coffeehouse industry, Starbucks positions itself as a go-to destination for quality coffee. The brand targets middle- to upper-class workers, offering a premium experience that caters to the demands of the affluent urban consumer segment. Through a customer-centric approach, including open door policies and free Wi-Fi, Starbucks strives to enhance customer satisfaction.

Starbucks’ commitment to excellence is reflected in its continuous growth and the loyalty it has garnered from customers. People are willing to spend more at Starbucks compared to other coffee shops, recognizing the value and experience the brand provides.

The next section will delve into Starbucks’ global expansion strategies, exploring how the brand has established its presence in various countries around the world.

Starbucks’ Global Expansion Strategies

Starbucks, a renowned coffeehouse chain, has established a significant global presence by leveraging effective international growth strategies. With a presence in over 80 countries, Starbucks has successfully expanded its operations worldwide, catering to diverse market preferences while maintaining a consistent core menu globally.

In 1987, Starbucks made its first foray into the international market by opening a store in Vancouver, Canada, just five years after Howard Schultz joined the company. Since then, Starbucks has adopted a localized approach, saturating local markets before expanding into new ones. This strategy has been instrumental in ensuring the brand’s success and acceptance in different regions.

One key aspect of Starbucks’ global expansion strategy is its focus on adapting to local tastes and preferences. The company has successfully localized its offerings in various markets, such as China and Japan, by introducing region-specific items and flavors. By catering to the unique preferences of each market, Starbucks has been able to foster customer loyalty and engagement.

Additionally, Starbucks has created a concept that it calls “third places.” These are welcoming and comfortable spaces where customers can socialize, relax, and work. Starbucks’ commitment to providing these environments has helped drive customer loyalty, making the brand a preferred choice for individuals seeking a community-oriented coffeehouse experience.

Starbucks is renowned for embracing innovation and staying ahead of the curve. The company was among the pioneers in offering free Wi-Fi access to customers, allowing them to stay connected while enjoying their favorite beverages. Furthermore, Starbucks hosts various community events like live music performances, book readings, and art exhibitions, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

Starbucks has also leveraged its global expansion by forming strategic partnerships and collaborations. In India, Starbucks partnered with Tata companies to gain access to high-quality raw materials, ensuring the delivery of superior products to customers. By aligning with local partners, Starbucks has been able to navigate complex markets efficiently and establish a solid foothold.

To support its global expansion, Starbucks has focused on quality products, high visibility store locations, continuous employee training, and substantial capital investment. These factors contribute to maintaining the brand’s perception as a premium coffeehouse chain, offering customers exceptional experiences wherever they are.

Starbucks Target Market and Market Segmentation

Starbucks, the renowned global coffeehouse chain, strategically targets a wide demographic range and adopts an effective market segmentation approach to reach its desired customer segments. By understanding the diverse needs and preferences of its target audience, Starbucks has successfully positioned itself as a leading player in the coffee industry.

Demographic Segmentation:

Starbucks targets individuals aged 22-60, catering to professionals, employees, and students alike. The brand appeals to both males and females, targeting singles, young married couples, older married couples with children, and children of all ages. With its market penetration spanning across different age groups and household compositions, Starbucks ensures its products are accessible to a broad customer base.

Geographic Segmentation:

Starbucks’ geographic targeting is truly global, with a presence in regions such as Latin America, the US, Canada, the Middle East, Europe, China, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific regions. The company strategically expands its operations to reach coffee enthusiasts in various parts of the world, leveraging the cultural diversity and unique preferences of each market.

Psychographic Segmentation:

Psychographic elements play a crucial role in Starbucks’ market segmentation strategy. The brand appeals to customers from different societal classes and lifestyles, focusing on creating an excellent store ambiance that fosters relaxation, social commitment, and environmental responsibility. Starbucks attracts health-conscious individuals who value sustainability and seek a unique coffee experience.

Through its market segmentation efforts, Starbucks effectively targets its desired customer segments, capturing the attention of urban and suburban centers worldwide. The brand resonates with busy, health-conscious, socially aware consumers who appreciate premium products and exceptional service. Starbucks’ emphasis on quality control and meeting high expectations has garnered ‘hard core’ loyalty from its customers.

As of 2021, Starbucks operates over 33,000 stores globally, with approximately half of its stores located in the US. In the highly competitive cafe sales industry, Starbucks holds a significant 57% market share in the US. The company’s consistent revenue growth over the years, reaching $24.61 billion in 2021, further solidifies its market position.

Starbucks Digital Marketing Approach

Starbucks, known for its global presence and premium brand positioning, has adopted a digital-first approach to enhance its marketing strategies. With a focus on connecting with their target audience effectively, Starbucks leverages various digital platforms, including social media engagement and mobile ordering services, to create meaningful customer experiences.

Starbucks understands the importance of staying connected with its customers in the digital age. Through strategic investments in digital advertising, the company effectively reaches its target audience and capitalizes on the growing trend towards online platforms. By leveraging social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, Starbucks engages with their millions of followers, generating brand awareness and fostering brand loyalty.

Starbucks’ social media engagement is a testament to its digital marketing success . With over 36 million page likes on Facebook, 17.8 million followers on Instagram, and 11 million followers on Twitter, the brand has effectively built a strong digital community. By posting interactive content, visually appealing images, and engaging with their audience, Starbucks stays top-of-mind and creates meaningful connections with its customers.

In addition, Starbucks has embraced the shift towards mobile technology by offering mobile ordering services. This allows customers to conveniently place their orders through the Starbucks mobile app, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall customer experience. By investing in mobile ordering services, Starbucks caters to the needs of its tech-savvy customers and stays ahead of the competition.

Furthermore, Starbucks understands the power of data in delivering personalized marketing experiences . Through their rewards program and mobile app, Starbucks collects valuable customer data, enabling them to tailor their promotional offers, recommendations, and personalized marketing campaigns. This data-driven approach not only enhances the customer experience but also drives customer loyalty and increases customer lifetime value .

To showcase their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, Starbucks integrates sustainable initiatives and environmental consciousness into its digital marketing approach. By implementing various sustainability practices and initiatives, Starbucks appeals to socially conscious consumers, enhancing its brand reputation and capturing a wider market share.

With their effective digital marketing approach, Starbucks continues to enhance the customer journey, foster brand loyalty, and stay at the forefront of the coffee industry. By leveraging social media engagement, mobile ordering services, and a data-driven approach, Starbucks delivers personalized experiences to their customers, ultimately driving business growth and brand success.

Starbucks Promotional Strategies

Starbucks, with over 32,000 stores across more than 80 countries, has implemented a range of promotional strategies to not only maintain its premium positioning but also expand its global market reach.

One of the key promotional strategies employed by Starbucks is its focus on product-based campaigns. By promoting unique and fan-favorite beverages, Starbucks creates excitement and drives consumer engagement. These campaigns highlight the craftsmanship and quality of Starbucks’ offerings, enticing customers to explore their diverse menu options. Whether it’s the seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte or the indulgent Caramel Frappuccino, Starbucks leverages these product-based campaigns to create a buzz and boost sales.

In addition to product-based campaigns, Starbucks is also committed to corporate social responsibility initiatives. By actively supporting social causes, promoting sustainability, and investing in ethical sourcing practices, Starbucks connects with socially conscious consumers. Through community engagement and partnership programs, Starbucks establishes itself as a brand that prioritizes social responsibility. Such initiatives not only strengthen Starbucks’ brand reputation but also foster long-lasting connections with its customers.

Starbucks’ promotional strategies are tailored to different markets, taking into account cultural nuances and consumer preferences. In China, Starbucks markets its stores as gathering places, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages customers to linger and socialize. In Japan, Starbucks has successfully incorporated traditional Japanese décor and matcha-infused beverages, resonating with local tastes and preferences.

By combining its product-based campaigns, social responsibility initiatives, and market-specific promotions, Starbucks has been able to effectively reach and engage its target audience. The company’s marketing efforts extend beyond traditional advertising, focusing on delivering high-quality products, exceptional services, and an inviting atmosphere that sets Starbucks apart from its competitors.

Starbucks Competitive Analysis and Market Position

Starbucks Corporation, with its global recognition and market leader status, has established itself as a dominant player in the coffee industry. With a market share of 36.7%, Starbucks easily surpasses its competitors, making it the clear leader in the retail coffee and snacks industry [1] . The company’s success can be attributed to its strong emphasis on quality, innovation, and exceptional customer experience.

Starbucks operates in over 80 countries and territories, showcasing its global reach and market presence [11] . The company’s commitment to specialty coffee products sets it apart from competitors like McDonald’s, Dunkin’, Wendy’s, Subway, and Burger King [11] . By focusing on creating a unique and high-quality product offering, Starbucks effectively differentiates itself from other coffeehouse firms.

One key component of Starbucks’ growth strategy is market penetration. The company aims to maximize revenues from existing markets by opening more stores in weak or limited markets, such as Africa and the Middle East [13] . With its expansive global footprint and diverse customer base, Starbucks has established itself as a top choice for coffee enthusiasts worldwide.

A Competitive Landscape

The coffee industry faces moderate threats from new entrants, with barriers to entry not high enough to discourage new competitors [6] . However, Starbucks’ strong market presence and brand recognition create a competitive advantage that new entrants find difficult to replicate. Despite the industry’s high to moderate intensity of competitive rivalry, Starbucks holds its ground as the market leader with a broad differentiation strategy [10] .

Starbucks’ competitive advantage lies in its focus on making its products unique and of high quality. The brand continually innovates its product mix and supply chain to maintain its position as a market leader. This dedication to excellence, combined with its warm and friendly ambiance, attracts a wide customer base, particularly the younger, more tech-savvy crowd [24] .

The bargaining power of buyers in the industry is moderate to low. Starbucks offers vertically differentiated products, which means that no single buyer can demand significant price concessions. This is due to Starbucks’ ability to meet the diverse preferences and tastes of its customer base [8] .

Starbucks’ bargaining power with suppliers ranges from low to moderate. Standard inputs such as coffee beans pose a moderately low threat, and the company has established strong relationships with premium Arabica coffee growers in select regions [9] .

• Starbucks dominates the industry with a market share of 36.7%
• The company operates in over 80 countries and territories
• Starbucks focuses on specialty coffee products, differentiating itself from competitors
• Market penetration is Starbucks’ primary growth strategy
• The company employs a broad differentiation strategy to maintain its competitive advantage

Through its commitment to quality, innovation, and a strong brand image, Starbucks continues to assert its market leadership in the coffee industry. With its global recognition and a diverse range of offerings, Starbucks remains the go-to destination for coffee lovers worldwide.

Sources: [1] – Statista [6] – Retail Info Systems [8] – Our Daily Cup [9] – Investopedia [10] – Research Gate [11] – Business Wire [13] – The Balance Small Business [24] – HuffPost

Starbucks’ Impact on Indian Market

Since its entry into the Indian market in 2011, Starbucks has made significant strides in establishing a strong presence and influencing the coffee culture in the country. Leveraging its global success and reputation, Starbucks partnered with Tata Global Beverages to tap into the high-growth potential of the under-penetrated Indian market. Through a 50:50 joint venture, Starbucks marked its Indian market entry, setting the stage for exponential growth in the years to come.

India’s economic growth rates consistently outpace global benchmarks, making it the perfect backdrop for Starbucks’ expansion plans. With its remarkable GDP growth and a growing consumer base, India emerged as the second most important emerging market based on GDP. Recognizing this opportunity, Starbucks strategically positioned itself as a premium coffee brand catering to the rising aspirations of the Indian upper-class segment.

Starbucks’ brand reputation and premium image played a vital role in capturing the Indian consumers’ attention. Known for its commitment to quality, service, and an indulgent experience, Starbucks successfully appealed to the aspirational nature of Indian consumers, who were willing to pay premium prices for their favorite cup of coffee.

Upon entering the Indian market, Starbucks faced the challenge of tapping into a diverse and multi-lingual population. In preparation, the company proactively trademarked its brand in ten Indian languages in 2008, safeguarding its competitive advantage and ensuring seamless brand recognition across the country.

Starbucks’ impact on the Indian market goes beyond just a coffee chain. The company’s commitment to its employees, exemplified by its payment of tuition fees, further enhances its reputation among consumers. Starbucks outlets in India pride themselves on offering a local coffee shop atmosphere, providing customers with a cozy and inviting space to enjoy their favorite brew, setting itself apart from traditional fast-food establishments.

The Growth of Starbucks in India

Tata Starbucks, the joint venture between Tata Global Beverages and Starbucks Corporation, has witnessed substantial growth since its inception. In fiscal year 2023, the company reported a robust revenue of Rs 1,087 crore, representing a significant 71% increase from the previous year. The joint venture currently operates 333 stores in India and added 71 new outlets in FY23 alone, including 22 in the fourth quarter.

The expansion of Tata Starbucks across India has been remarkable, with the company venturing into 15 new cities in a year, marking the highest-ever annual store addition in its history. This extensive expansion has solidified Starbucks’ position as a key player in the evolving Indian coffee market, achieving impressive revenue growth and reaching its highest-ever annual store additions.

Looking ahead, Starbucks’ commitment to the Indian market remains strong. With India’s estimated annual growth rate for coffee retailing at 6% and a growth rate for coffee bars at 13%, the potential for further expansion and success in the country is immense. Coffee chains are expected to capture 15% of the current 2000 crore away-from-home beverages market in India, with South and West India projected to be the focal points for coffee retail and bars.

Starbucks’ impact on the Indian market has been substantial, contributing to the growth and evolution of the country’s coffee culture. The expansion efforts, premium positioning, and commitment to quality have resonated with Indian consumers, further solidifying Starbucks’ position as the largest coffeehouse chain in the world.

Starbucks’ success can be attributed to its strong marketing strategies, commitment to quality, and ability to create a unique customer experience. By reaching out to middle and upper-class men and women, Starbucks has tapped into a market with the financial potential for luxury drinks. The company’s digital expansion, social media engagement, and product-based campaigns have helped it maintain a strong global presence. Starbucks’ focus on international growth, market segmentation, and corporate social responsibility initiatives have solidified its brand positioning and success.

Despite challenges and uncertainties in the highly competitive coffee industry, Starbucks has shown consistent growth and innovation. As a result of its efforts, Starbucks holds a dominant market share and has experienced a positive outlook in emerging markets. The company’s pricing strategy and rewards programs have contributed to increased average transaction sizes and customer engagement. By maintaining a consistent brand image and emphasizing quality, Starbucks stands out as a premium coffee franchise.

Looking ahead, Starbucks’ future outlook remains promising. With a strong foundation in place and a track record of adapting to market changes, Starbucks is well-positioned to navigate challenges and continue its growth trajectory. As per industry forecasts, the US retail coffee and snacks industry is projected to see continued growth, providing an opportunity for Starbucks to expand its market share and drive profitability. Overall, Starbucks’ success story showcases the power of effective marketing strategies and the importance of delivering a unique customer experience in the global beverage industry.

What is Starbucks’ global marketing strategy for 2024?

How has starbucks built its brand and achieved global recognition, how has starbucks expanded its presence globally, who is starbucks’ target market, how does starbucks utilize digital marketing, what promotional strategies does starbucks use, how does starbucks position itself in the coffee industry, what impact has starbucks had on the indian market, what has contributed to starbucks’ success, related posts:.

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Nina Sheridan is a seasoned author at Latterly.org, a blog renowned for its insightful exploration of the increasingly interconnected worlds of business, technology, and lifestyle. With a keen eye for the dynamic interplay between these sectors, Nina brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her writing. Her expertise lies in dissecting complex topics and presenting them in an accessible, engaging manner that resonates with a diverse audience.

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More From Forbes

Why it took starbucks 47 years to open a store in italy.

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Starbucks' success in the Italian market will be a showdown between American and Italian coffee ... [+] cultures.

This homecoming story was a long time in the making.

Starbucks unveiled its first ever store in Italy last week, a Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Milan that is just as much a commercial emblem as it is a historic statement of the company's prodigal return to the city that first inspired its brand.

Located in a trendy square near some of Milan’s top tourist attractions, the 25,000-square foot building is outfitted in Tuscan marble and gleaming copper, featuring extravagances such as a 500 pound in-house coffee roaster, augmented reality (AR)-configured walls, an aperitivo bar and a liquid nitrogen affogato station.

Today, Starbucks has over 28,000 locations in 78 countries worldwide, bringing in over $22 billion in revenue in 2017. According to Kantar Millward Brown , it is the fast food industry’s second most valuable brand, with its green-and-white logo worth some $44.5 billion. The company dominates pop culture, from viral Buzzfeed-celebrated drinks to national cultural meltdowns about holiday cup designs.

However, in its 47 year history, there is one country from which Starbucks has remained conspicuously absent. For good reason--Italians take their coffee very differently, and don’t take kindly to American corporations trying to change their culture.  Now, at the height of its power and profitability, it was time for Starbucks to rethink Italy.

All Roads Lead Back To Rome

In this photo taken on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2108, an external view of the Starbucks store in Milan, ... [+] Italy. Starbucks opens its first store in Italy Friday, betting that premium brews and novelties like a heated marble-topped coffee bar will win patrons in a country fond of its espresso rituals. Decades ago, Milan’s coffee bars had inspired the chain’s vision. Starbucks hopes clients will linger at Starbucks Reserve Roastery, where they can watch beans being roasted, sip Reserve coffee or have cocktails at a mezzanine-level bar in a cavernous space that once was a post office near the city’s Duomo, or cathedral. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Old mixes with new at Starbucks Milan, a perfect metaphor for the meeting of American and Italian coffee cultures. The marble floor of the store was constructed in a traditional Palladian style, while the ceiling was built using the latest technology. The building’s facade is an imposing structure that used to be the city’s historic post office.

If there is any culture in the world that takes its coffee seriously, it’s the Italians. For this reason, Starbucks is taking special pains to align itself with the local economy. From offering locally roasted small-lot Arabica coffee to cafe fares by Princi, an Italian-owned bakery that Starbucks has forged an extended partnership with for all of its Reserve Roasteries, Starbucks is deferring--as corporately as possible--to the hostess. A partnership with Percassi,€” an Italian brand management and real estate group, further helped the company understand its new market.

“I think this idea of presenting itself in this traditional way with the roasteries is a cunning marketing move, because they are showing we are different, but we are the same,” said Eva Del Soldato, an Assistant Professor of Romance Languages at the University of Pennsylvania who teaches a seminar on Italian culture and food. “[It says], ‘We are not here to teach Italians how to prepare coffee’. This kind of humbleness can be appreciated.”

In this photo taken on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2108, a view of the Starbucks store in Milan, Italy. ... [+] Starbucks opens its first store in Italy Friday, betting that premium brews and novelties like a heated marble-topped coffee bar will win patrons in a country fond of its espresso rituals. Decades ago, Milan’s coffee bars had inspired the chain’s vision. Starbucks hopes clients will linger at Starbucks Reserve Roastery, where they can watch beans being roasted, sip Reserve coffee or have cocktails at a mezzanine-level bar in a cavernous space that once was a post office near the city’s Duomo, or cathedral. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Del Soldato believes Starbucks made the right decision by picking Milan as its entry point, a city of modern fashion and finance. In contrast, Naples and Rome are the true coffee snob capitals of Italy, where the espresso culture even more insular.

But how will Starbucks successfully compete in a market like Italy, where even the most nondescript coffee bar in a small village is still likely to serve coffee good enough to bring tears to the eyes of the stuffiest Brooklyn bean connoisseur? The answer--it’s not just about product. It’s about the experience.

For Milanese customers, Starbucks will become the brand that they carry around on paper cups, conveying a sense of dynamic busyness and an on-the-go attitude. It will be the place a businessman dips into to send an urgent email, or a place where you can go if you don’t feel like talking to the regulars at your local bar that day. Starbucks doesn’t sell just coffee: it sells a status symbol, an office, something extra. In a way, the experience justifies the brand, which justifies the price, and so on.

“They’re offering coffee, but they’re offering coffee with a very different formula, and speaking to an audience who can be interested in that kind of thing,” Del Soldato said.

A Grande Comparison

Paper cups versus espressos cups

To understand why it took Starbucks so long to make the move into Italy, it is key to recognize just how different American and Italian coffee culture are, and how interwoven with national identity and values the latter is. Del Soldato believes coffee is so important to Italian culture that it is practically considered a “social right.”

“Drinking coffee in Italy in many cases is not only about coffee itself, it’s about spending time with friends,” she said. “We think that everyone has the right to get a coffee. No matter if you’re poor or rich, coffee makes us all equal.”

Italians believe, quite simply, that coffee should be purist, high quality, and accessible to all. As a result, many aspects of American coffee culture, and by extension Starbucks, befuddle them. For one, Starbucks has seven possible cup sizes, from the 3 ounce demi shot to the 31 ounce trenta . In Italy, there’s just one. Starbucks makes drinks the color of unicorns and zombies. Italy does not. Due to sheer volume of business, Starbucks is designed to serve customers quickly and efficiently, whereas in Italy, you go to a coffee bar precisely for leisure and long, winding conversations with your local barista.

Lastly, there’s the price point. Starbucks is not known for selling cheap coffee, and with Starbucks Milan, an espresso will cost 1.8 euros sitting or standing at the bar (about $2), while a cappuccino could go up to 4.5 euros. Already, an Italian consumer group has filed a complaint against the coffee giant, accusing it of peddling prices far above the Milanese average.

If the Italian way of doing coffee is so superior, how come there isn’t an Italian Starbucks doppelganger that has already achieved global domination? Multinational corporatism simply isn’t as widespread or preferred by Italians, Del Soldato explained, who tend to view franchises with suspicion.

“Italians tend to be people of habit,” she said. “Things are very rooted in the territory and people like to interact with people they’re well acquainted with. When things become bigger, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the quality is maintained.”

In this photo taken on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2108, a waiter adds chocolate to coffee cups, at the ... [+] Starbucks store in Milan, Italy. Starbucks opens its first store in Italy Friday, betting that premium brews and novelties like a heated marble-topped coffee bar will win patrons in a country fond of its espresso rituals. Decades ago, Milan’s coffee bars had inspired the chain’s vision. Starbucks hopes clients will linger at Starbucks Reserve Roastery, where they can watch beans being roasted, sip Reserve coffee or have cocktails at a mezzanine-level bar in a cavernous space that once was a post office near the city’s Duomo, or cathedral. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Still, things are changing. Outside concepts like iced coffee have made its way into the culture, with Italy putting its own spin on it with creations like the shakerado . When Del Soldato visited her native Florence this past summer, she was asked at one of the city’s most famous bars, Cafe La Loggia, if she wanted her cappuccino regular or “jumbo” sized. Maybe it was the fact that she was with her American husband, but nonetheless, America’s supersize culture was starting to catch on, even in a city as traditional as Florence.

“I wouldn’t say the coffee culture in italy is a static one, despite its traditionalism,” Del Soldato said. “Since there is this awareness that coffee is so central in our lives, of course there is that attempt to sell coffee in several shapes.”

At the same time, there are just some aspects of Italian coffee culture that may never be transposable to the American way--for example, the Naples-born tradition of caffè sospeso , or “suspended coffee.”

In caffè sospeso , a customer pays not only for their coffee, but one extra for the next stranger who walks in the door and cannot afford it. This tradition is still in practice all over Italy today, and extends to other food items like gelato as well.

“It’s a beautiful habit, and it shows you how coffee is important, because it’s not considered a luxury item,” Del Soldato said. “I wonder if a place like Starbucks can offer caffe sospeso , because there is not that personal interaction between the customer, the bar and the third person.”

Selling Italy to Italians

A Starbucks frappuccino casts a shadow over an espresso cup on a table

To succeed in Italy, foreign companies must do one of two things--sell a product better than the Italian version that already exists, or find an audience that wants your product anyway.

Large American corporations like McDonald’s, Ben and Jerry’s, and Haagen Daz have all tried to enter the Italian market long before Starbucks, with mixed results. When Ben and Jerry’s opened a shop in the touristic Piazza del Duomo in Florence years ago, they were shunned by the Italians, who regarded the hard American ice cream as an insult to Italy’s wonderfully soft gelato, as well as the American tourists, who didn’t schelp all the way across the Atlantic for ice cream they could get back home. The shop closed after about two years. Haagen Daz was another American brand that met the same fate in Florence.

On the other hand, McDonald’s had more success thanks to its adaption to Italian taste and its brand differentiation. When it entered the market in the 80s, the fast food giant became an exciting place for people who were on vacation or had kids to placate. McDonald’s survived also by creating special items like the panini and partnering with the Italian Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies to use all-Italian ingredients grown by a cohort of young Italian farmers.

Milan, Italy - July 21, 2017: Tourism massive in Milan Cathedral, known as Duomo di Milano

A case study hitting even closer to home is Domino’s, another American corporation selling an Italian invention to Italians. Starbucks may be cheered to know that the Detroit pizza chain has managed to hang on for dear life in Rome and Milan by differentiating itself as a home delivery service, sourcing all-Italian ingredients, and offering items tailored to Italian taste such as the Four Seasons and Quattro Formaggi pizzas.

All this goes to show that Starbucks can survive in Italy if it deploys a strategy similar to McDonald’s and Dominos of integrating with the local community and culture at large. Still, it’s easier said than done. When Starbucks announced in 2015 its formal plans to open shop in Milan, the company courted locals by planting 42 palm trees to beautify the famous Piazza del Duomo. The reaction? An angry citizen set them on fire and now-Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini accused Starbucks of “Africanization.”

Other Italians are decidedly more laid back. Francesco Spagnol, a 24 year old graduate student from Bologna, said he felt indifferent about the new Starbucks in his home country.

“I don’t really get why a lot of people are angry,” Spagnol said. “It’s just one more choice people can have. I think it’s not going to cause problems to Italian bars. It gives us more freedom.”

Spagnol said he has only visited Starbucks a few times in his life while abroad in London, and found it wasn’t the place for him because it was too crowded. In Italy, he frequents a small rotation of local bars three times a week to either study or catch up with friends.

As for the quality of Starbucks’ coffee itself?

“The coffee was not bad,” Spagnol said. “Just different.”

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Entry Modes of MNCs in a foreign market – A Case Study of Starbucks in China

• Jidapa Damrongratanasilp
• Published 14 September 2017
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Please note you do not have access to teaching notes, aeron dilemma of market selection.

Publication date: 30 September 2024

Teaching notes

Learning outcomes.

This case study would enable the learners to identify and evaluate the factors impacting the strategic decision to enter international markets. The learners would be able to identify parameters such as level of competition, perception regarding foreign entrants and demand factors that are crucial for the form to consider while taking such an important decision. The case study will also allow learners to understand the challenges of an entrepreneurial journey.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study is an interesting story of two entrepreneurs’ dilemma of internationalization strategy of their firm Aeron. Their firm’s product Tilt Switch had a good international demand and both partners wished to capture this opportunity, post the COVID-19 pandemic. This case study shows how the firm looked into factors to study new international markets, balancing risk and opportunity. The case study highlights the important role of strategic planning in achieving successful internationalization by analysing various approaches to market entry and adaptation. The firm had a choice of either developing their domestic market India or going for international markets of the USA or European Union.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for graduation and postgraduation courses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 5: International Business.

• Market selection
• Internationalization
• Tilt Switch
• Entrepreneurship
• Business development
• International business

Acknowledgements

Disclaimer. This case is written solely for educational purposes and is not intended to represent successful or unsuccessful managerial decision-making. The authors may have disguised names; financial and other recognizable information to protect confidentiality.

Kumar, A. , Pujari, P. and Gupta, N. (2024), "Aeron dilemma of market selection", , Vol. 14 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/EEMCS-11-2023-0434

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