Starbucks success in the the 1990's, was a result of Chairman and CEO Howard Schultz's vision for the company. Schultz's goal was not primarily about the coffee itself; it was about creating an experience around drinking coffee in a Starbucks store. He wanted to create a “third-place” for those whose lives were centered on home and work. In creating this experience, Schultz focused much of his attention and resources on customer satisfaction, which lead to Starbucks' quick success.
There were a few key elements of the Starbuck's value proposition that led to its success; coffee quality, customer service, and atmosphere. In the early 1990's part of Starbucks' strategy was to serve what it felt was the “highest-quality coffee in the world.” To do this they controlled the three major parts of the supply-chain; purchasing beans, roasting, and distribution. This enabled the company to keep full control of quality of its products and services. .