Going Global: Starbucks, United Team Up
United Airlines will offer passengers potent Starbucks coffee on all flights beginning in January.
United and Seattle-based Starbucks Coffee Co. announced the deal Tuesday.
It’s a key part of Starbucks’ global expansion strategy, Chairman Howard Schultz said. The company has nearly 700 North American retail stores, a mail-order business and a growing food-service supply operation.
Starbucks roasts its coffee longer than many competitors, resulting in a darker beverage with a strong taste.
Starbucks’ specialty drinks, such as espresso, won’t be available on United flights.
Starbucks also supplies coffee to Alaska Airlines, Barnes & Noble bookstores, ITT Sheraton hotels and Nordstrom department stores.