Strong Market Position and Global Brand Recognition: Starbucks has a significant geographical presence
across the globe and maintain a 36.7% market share in the United States (Appendix 1) and has operations in
over 60 countries. Starbucks is also the most recognized brand in the coffeehouse segment and is ranked 91st in
the best global brands of 2013.8
Starbucks effectively leverages its rich brand equity by merchandizing
products, licensing its brand logo out. Such strong market position and brand recognition allows the company
to gain significant competitive advantage in further expanding into international markets and also help register
higher growth in both domestic and international markets. Over the years, they have achieved significant
economies of scale with superior distribution channels and supplier relationships