Starbucks is working with Japanese beverage maker and distributor Suntory Ltd. The “Discoveries” and “Doubleshot” lines
are the company’s first forays into the ready-to-drink market outside North America, where it sells a line of bottled and canned
coffee. It also underscores Starbucks’ determination to expand its
presence in Asia by catering to local tastes. For instance, the new
product comes in two variations—espresso and latte—that are less
sweet than their U.S. counterparts, as the coffee maker developed
them to suit Asian palates. Starbucks officials said they hope to
establish their product as the premium chilled cup brand, which, at
210 yen ($1.87), will be priced at the upper end of the category.