Starbucks opened its first store in Italy in 2018, in a historic building near the Milan Cathedral, more than four decades after its founding in Seattle. The move came amid local skepticism, as a poll showed 87% of Italians opposed the presence of such a global brand, fearing it would undermine their rich coffee culture. However, the curiosity of locals and tourists alike led to long lines on the opening day. By 2025, while Starbucks has expanded to 36 locations, the sentiment towards the brand remains mixed, with traditional Italian coffee culture still being strongly upheld.
Starbucks promised to enter Italy with 'great humility and respect' but faced skepticism from locals who feared for their traditional coffee culture.
87% of respondents to a Facebook poll expressed disapproval of Starbucks opening in Milan, fearing it would erode Italy's prized coffee heritage.
Despite skepticism, Starbucks attracted significant tourist interest, illustrated by the long lines on opening day, indicating a mixed local reception towards the brand.
By 2025, local opinion on Starbucks is still mixed, highlighting the ongoing tension between the global brand and Italy's strong coffee culture.
Collection
[
|
...
]