Starbucks launched its first UK outlet in 1998. Credit: ardiwebs/Shutterstock

Starbucks Coffee Company has announced the acquisition of 23.5 Degrees in the UK – a substantial step in the expansion of its company-operated stores.  

The move both broadens Starbucks’ wholly owned presence and aims to enhance the coffeehouse experience for its customers in the region. 

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The acquisition incorporates the largest Starbucks-licensed business partner in the UK market, adding 113 stores and 1,650 employees to the brand. 

The total number of Starbucks company-operated locations in the UK is around 500. 

23.5 Degrees holds the distinction of being Starbucks’ first UK franchised business partner, having opened its initial store in February 2013. 

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Starbucks UK, Switzerland and Austria general manager Alex Rayner stated: “I want to acknowledge the important contributions of 23.5 Degrees and the dedicated green apron partners. This strategic move will enable us to enhance our investment in new locations, elevate our in-store experience and drive innovation for our UK customers.” 

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Starbucks, which launched its first outlet in 1998, has more than 1,000 UK outlets.

In March 2024, Starbucks reported a 22% year-on-year sales increase in the UK for the 12 months ending 1 October 2023, with figures reaching £547.7m ($693m). 

The coffee chain then announced its plans to open a further 100 stores in the UK in the financial year 2024, focussing on drive-through and high-footfall city centre locations. 

It already operates 340 drive-through locations in the country.  

In October 2024, Starbucks announced two new farms in its sustainable coffee farm network, one in Costa Rica and another in Guatemala.