Starbucks sales are effected by a wide range of political factors, directly and indirectly. The patterns of sourcing raw materials has evolved into a significant political factor that effects the business in a direct manner. Specifically, nowadays it has become compulsory for Starbucks and other global businesses to engage in sourcing of raw materials complying to environmental and social norms that are becoming stricter. Neglecting such norms intentionally or unintentionally are likely to cause political pressure on the business.