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Starbucks expanding Community Store in South Korea come 2020

Photo by istock.com

October 11, 2019

Starbucks Korea is expanding its profit-sharing Community Store program and plans to open the first of several locations in early 2020.

The country is one of three Starbucks markets with Community Stores, according to a press release.

The first launched in Seoul five years ago and since then 30 cents from every purchase at the store is donated to Green Umbrella ChildFund Korea to support lifelong skills development for youth through the Starbucks Comprehensive Youth Leadership Program.

The new stores build on the brand's commitment to social impact in local communities. In South Korea the social impact initiatives are investing in young people seeking opportunities, promoting environmental sustainability and celebrating Korean cultural heritage.

Starbucks works with local non-profits and community organizations to fund innovative programs that empower the local community.

"For nearly 50 years, Starbucks has believed that one of the most important contributions we can make is to serve as a catalyst for positive impact in the communities where we do business," said John Culver, group president, international, channel development and global coffee and tea, in the release. "As a company, each year we try to live up to this responsibility in new and meaningful ways. I’m proud to announce that this year, we’re introducing a plan that will increase our commitment to building more Community Stores across South Korea."