During Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol’s recent Middle East visit, the global coffee giant marked significant regional achievements and introduced its new EmpowerME initiative.
Under this initiative, Starbucks will allocate US$6 million in grants across the Middle East. The funds are earmarked to support mentorship programs, skills development, and career readiness efforts for approximately 250,000 young people in the area. “This initiative builds on our long – standing tradition of community support, ensuring that the youth have the necessary tools and training for success,” Starbucks stated.
The EmpowerME initiative is part of an extensive collaboration involving The Starbucks Foundation, Starbucks’ Middle East franchise partner Alshaya Group, INJAZ Al – Arab/JA MENA, and Habitat Association.
Starbucks emphasized the Middle East’s crucial role in its global expansion, stating, “For over 25 years, the Middle East market has been a cornerstone of Starbucks’ global journey.” The company’s leaders, during their visit, engaged with store employees (referred to as “green apron partners”) and business partners at Alshaya Group. These interactions reaffirmed Starbucks’ deep – seated commitment to the region’s communities, partners, and customers.
Adding to the festivities, Starbucks celebrated the reopening of the newly renovated Starbucks Reserve store at The Avenues in Kuwait. Spanning two storeys and covering 5,000 square feet, this venue is claimed to be the world’s largest Starbucks store.
Currently, Starbucks operates over 1,300 stores in the Middle East through a licensing agreement with Alshaya Group. Looking ahead, the company has ambitious plans to open 500 new stores and create 5,000 jobs in the region over the next five years.
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