The above is the value chain for Starbucks. The upstream portion of the value chain shows the
product development from adding teas and international influences, to the research that took
place to develop the VIA instant coffee line. They also search the globe for Fair Trade suppliers
of high quality beans. These products are then distributed to corporate storefronts, franchise
locations, airport terminals, grocery stores and more, and finally offer ground coffee and gift
cards to take home.