Six Starbucks stores will be opening in Cape Town over the next four weeks, and Capetonians can look forward to a one-of-its-kind opening experience at four of these stores, with an exclusive, safe and personal introduction to the brand.

"The safety of our partners and customers is our foremost priority, and we're creating an opportunity for connection, something Starbucks is known for around the world. Instead of queuing to be among the first to experience Starbucks in the Mother City, Capetonians will be able to book their exclusive slot for the opening weekend at four of our new stores," says Adrian Maizey, owner and CEO of Rand Capital Coffee, the licensee of Starbucks in Southern Africa.

On arrival in one of the four participating stores, pre-booked guests will be welcomed into what is known around the world as the third place, an environment where everyone is welcome and can gather to share great coffee and deepen the human connection. A Starbucks partner, as their baristas are known, will share an overview of how Starbucks achieves its mission of inspiring and nurturing the human spirit, one person, one cup and one neighbourhood at a time, providing a better understanding of the craftsmanship and ethical sourcing that goes into each beverage. After placing their order, customers can browse the merchandise or chat to the team about their favourite topic - coffee.

To sweeten the deal even further, Starbucks is giving away Starbucks merchandise including tote bags and pop sockets as well as mini bags of coffee to the first customers to pre-book their opening experience at the store of their choice. To book your Starbucks launch experience in one of the participating Cape Town Starbucks stores, simply visit http://ct.starbucks.co.za/. Pre-bookings go live on Monday, 16 November, and are only available for the opening weekends at Canal Walk (19 - 22 November), Cavendish Square (28 & 29 November), Tyger Valley (5 December) and V&A Waterfront (10 to 13 December). Also opening in December is Starbucks at FreshX Stellenbosch on 12 December and Starbucks Camps Bay on 15 December.

Don't forget to share your Starbucks experience with your friends online using the hashtag #carrythemerrywithstarbucks. And remember to be online early on Monday to book your slot before they're all taken!

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ISSUED ON BEHALF OF STARBUCKS BY ANGELFISH PR & EVENTS. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT ANNIE HODES ON 083 325 4445.

About Starbucks Coffee Company
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at http://www.starbucks.co.za.