Starbucks opens first location in Rome, Italy

Rome: Coffeehouse chain Starbucks has opened its first location in Rome, Italy, in partnership with Percassi, Starbucks’ exclusive Italian licensee partner.

Percassi Retail CEO Matteo Morandi said: “We are thrilled to open our first store in the centre of Rome, with even more exciting plans to come for the capital. Tomorrow’s opening will be the first in a series of wonderful surprises for the city.

“Lazio is a very important region for Starbucks and we celebrated our first opening in the province of Caserta last month, reaffirming our long-term commitment to continued growth in Italy.”

The new Piazza Montecitorio-based store is part of Starbucks’ expansion strategy, which aims to bring the brand’s experience to more Italian customers.

Starbucks’ two-floor structure in Montecitorio is spread over a 200m² area and can accommodate 80 guests.

The location is expected to create 35 new jobs.

The new store will offer both bakery and salad items and desserts. It will also provide Starbucks with new Oleato beverages.

This is Starbucks’ 25th store in Italy since it entered the market in 2018 with its first outlet in Milan.

The coffee chain also plans to open two new stores in Roma Termini Station by the end of this month, creating 45 new jobs.

Starbucks Italy general manager Vincenzo Catrambone said: “Coffee culture is very deep-rooted in Rome, with espresso being the most popular beverage.

“Even in Starbucks stores in Italy, the most bought drink is espresso while younger generations love Starbucks cold beverages and iced coffee.

“We are always working to create unique food and beverage proposals for our Italian customers during the seasons throughout the year, to continue to meet their needs and amaze them.”