Food - Drink
The Reason There Are Few Starbucks Locations In Australia
By MEGGAN ROBINSON
While Starbucks has over 15,000 stores in the United States, its presence in Australia is relatively modest, with only 61 locations. Coffee is beloved in the country, with 75% of Australians enjoying a daily cup (per McCrindle), so you may wonder why they don't love Starbucks as much as the U.S. and other countries do.
Australian coffee culture was born when Italian immigrants brought espresso to the country, and Aussies developed a taste for rich, flavorful coffee made through a hands-on, slower brewing process. Meanwhile, Starbucks focuses on convenience, quick service, and sweet and gimmicky drinks that are far from simple, high-class brews.
Starbucks failed to catch on in Australia simply because its vibe and products don't suit Australian coffee culture. Due to lost profits by attempting to sell drinks that are sweeter and more expensive than Aussies are used to, most Starbucks stores in the country were closed by 2008, with remaining locations catering primarily to tourists.