Oslo/Amsterdam, 27 September 2012 – Today, Starbucks Coffee Company (Nasdaq: SBUX) and Umoe Restaurant Group AS, a leading chain of service establishments in Scandinavia, announce their strategic partnership to open Starbucks stores across the Scandinavian region.

The partnership is focused on developing Starbucks stores on the high street while continuing to add stores in airport and railway locations.  The announcement demonstrates Starbucks commitment to expansion across Scandinavia, and extension beyond the current travel locations.  The first high street stores are expected to open with Umoe in 2013 in Sweden and Norway.

Michelle Gass, president, Starbucks Europe, Middle East and Africa: “We are proud to increase our presence in Scandinavia as part of our growth strategy in Europe, Middle East and Africa, and further develop stores where our customers want and expect us to be. For our expansion on the high street in Scandinavia we found a strong partner in Umoe Restaurant Group who services renowned brands in the Scandinavian region and has significant local expertise. Together with our shared commitment to partner (employee) development and exceptional customer service, we look forward to bringing the Starbucks Experience to even more customers in Scandinavia.”

Karen Kvalevåg, CEO at Umoe Restaurant Group AS: “We believe there is a great opportunity for Starbucks in the Scandinavian region and are privileged to support the company in its growth strategy. Our current focus is the search for passionate baristas and locations to deliver the true Starbucks Experience to our customers. There is an increasing demand for premium coffee throughout this region and we are excited to offer our customers a welcoming environment in which they can enjoy their favorite daily cup of Starbucks coffee.”