Starbucks To Offer MP3 Downloads

These additions to the Starbucks retail portfolio further extend the concept of the initial Hear Music Coffeehouse, which opened in Santa Monica, Calif. in March 2004.The new stores represent the full integration of a classic coffeehouse experience with an extensive digital and physical music inventory and underscore the Company’s steadfast commitment to extending its Entertainment initiative. The unrivalled combination results in a compelling third place destination for customers to connect over coffee as well as explore, discover, personalize and buy quality music in a warm and inviting environment.

“Starbucks has changed the rules of engagement for the music industry," said Howard Schultz, Starbucks chairman. “By fully integrating the Starbucks Experience with the discovery of music, the new Hear Music™ Coffeehouses offer a music retail environment unlike any other and represent a significant milestone for the Company."

“The new Hear Music Coffeehouses truly transform the way consumers discover and acquire music, both physically, through our CD inventory, and digitally, through our media bars," added Ken Lombard, president of Starbucks Entertainment. “We're building upon the success of the Santa Monica Coffeehouse, by incorporating customer feedback to extend the experience even further by adding enhanced ambiance, more space and new technology." 

Starbucks Hear Music has been recognized as a significant force in the music industry over the past year. Highlights include co-releasing the triple platinum, GRAMMY Award-winning Ray.   www.starbucks.com