By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Starbucks is elevating the customer experience this October with the launch of its annual Global Month of Coffee, a worldwide initiative designed to celebrate the journey of coffee from bean to cup. In Costa Rica, a nation renowned for its own rich coffee heritage, the company is rolling out a series of educational and sensory events aimed at deepening the connection between consumers and the stories behind their daily brew.
The month-long celebration is more than a marketing campaign; it’s a strategic effort to reinforce the brand’s core identity and its commitment to the global coffee community. By focusing on legacy, origins, and the positive impact on farming communities, Starbucks aims to transform a simple transaction into a meaningful interaction. The initiative provides a platform to highlight the intricate processes and human effort involved in every single cup served.
To provide deeper insight into the business and legal framework surrounding Starbucks’ expansion and operations in the country, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney specializing in corporate and commercial law at the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Starbucks’ continued success in Costa Rica is a textbook example of a master franchise model executed with precision. From a legal standpoint, their ability to maintain strict brand and quality control while fully complying with Costa Rican labor laws, consumer protection statutes, and municipal regulations is key. This dual focus on global standards and local legal adherence is fundamental for any multinational corporation aiming for long-term viability in our market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this dual focus on global brand consistency and meticulous local compliance underscores a crucial point: sustainable success in Costa Rica is built not just on a popular product, but on a robust legal and operational framework. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this essential dynamic.
The Month of Coffee is an opportunity to reconnect with our essence: the coffee and the people behind each cup. Through sensory, educational, and experiential activities, we want our customers to discover the passion, quality, and the positive impact that every Starbucks coffee generates.
María José Gutiérrez, Marketing Manager of Starbucks Costa Rica
Throughout October, local stores will host “Coffee Conversations,” a series of accessible educational activities. These sessions are designed to guide participants through the complete coffee journey, exploring different origins, brewing methods, and the nuances of flavor profiles. A significant focus will be placed on the company’s sustainability program, C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) Practices, offering transparency into its ethical sourcing standards.
The C.A.F.E. Practices program, developed in partnership with Conservation International, is a cornerstone of Starbucks’ ethical sourcing strategy. It provides a comprehensive set of measurable standards focused on economic accountability, social responsibility, and environmental leadership. By educating consumers on these principles, Starbucks is not only promoting its own brand but also raising awareness about the importance of sustainable agriculture in the coffee industry, a topic of particular resonance in Costa Rica.
For its most dedicated customers, the company is offering exclusive “Coffee Master Classes” on October 18th and 25th. These workshops, available to Starbucks Rewards members at select locations, will be led by certified Coffee Masters. The classes promise a highly interactive and sensory experience, allowing participants to engage directly with experts and gain a more profound appreciation for the craft of coffee preparation and tasting.
At Starbucks, we are obsessed with coffee, and we are proud of it. It’s not just about the distinctive flavor in each cup, but about the bold decisions we make every day to use our knowledge and our passion with purpose.
María José Gutiérrez, Marketing Manager of Starbucks Costa Rica
This initiative ultimately serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it aims to build brand loyalty by creating memorable, value-added experiences that go beyond the product itself. On the other, it reinforces the company’s narrative as a purpose-driven organization committed to a sustainable and equitable future for the coffee industry. Each event is a reminder of the broader ecosystem that a single purchase supports.
This month, each experience seeks to remind people that when they enjoy a Starbucks coffee, they are not just tasting a beverage, but also supporting communities, producers, and sustainable practices that drive a more just future for coffee.
María José Gutiérrez, Marketing Manager of Starbucks Costa Rica
For further information, visit starbucks.com
About Starbucks:
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through its unwavering commitment to excellence and its guiding principles, Starbucks brings its unique experience to life for every customer through every cup. The company is known for its wide range of beverage and food offerings, as well as its focus on creating a “third place” environment for its customers.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a premier legal practice, defined by its principled approach and a relentless drive for excellence. The firm leverages its deep history serving a diverse clientele to pioneer forward-thinking legal solutions and actively engage in community betterment. Central to its ethos is a profound dedication to democratizing legal knowledge, striving to equip the public with the clarity and understanding necessary to foster a justly empowered society.
