Starbucks Announces the Promotion of Two Executives inStarbucks Coffee International.

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 4, 1997--Starbucks Coffee Company (NASDAQ: SBUX) today announced the promotions of Kathie Lindemann to vice president of International Operations, and Troy Alstead to vice president of International Finance.

Lindemann joined Starbucks in 1990 as a manager

in education at the Ballard, WA store. Three months later, she was promoted to manager of her first store in Woodinville, WA, and later became a district manager in the Northwest Region. In 1992, she became a project manager in Retail Operations Services. In 1995, she was promoted from director of Operations Services to director, International Operations.

In her new role as vice president of International Operations, Lindemann will continue to oversee the merchandising, training, store development, and retail operations of new and existing international markets.

"Lindemann's commitment to Starbucks retail standards, her enthusiastic dedication to building strong relationships, and her quiet determination to see the Starbucks Experience translated across cultures has ensured that international stores have the true Starbucks look and feel," said Howard Behar, president of Starbucks International.

Alstead joined Starbucks in 1992. At that time, Starbucks had just over 100 locations, but did not have an official Finance & Planning function. Over the next two and a half years, Alstead was promoted to manager, Retail Finance and Planning, and then to director, Business Planning and Analysis.

As vice president of International Finance, Alstead will continue to oversee the finance, accounting, and business planning functions. He will also focus on expanding the company's logistics and export expertise, and continue to play a key role in new venture negotiations and new market research.

"Today, with six new international partnerships and more in the works, Starbucks wants to recognize Alstead's outstanding leadership and commitment to building the financial infrastructure to support Starbucks global growth vision," said Behar. "We know that the possibilities for Starbucks International's expansion are tremendous."

Starbucks Coffee Company is the leading retailer, roaster, and brand of specialty coffee in North America. Starbucks strives to develop enthusiastically satisfied customers all of the time, while contributing positively to its communities and the environment. In addition to its retail locations in North America and the Pacific Rim, Starbucks has a national direct response business and a specialty sales group.

CONTACT: Starbucks Coffee Company

Cheri Libby, 206/447-7272