description Howard Schultz Overview
Howard Schultz is an American business executive best known for leading the expansion of Starbucks. He joined the company in 1982, became interested in Italian espresso-bar culture, and later founded Il Giornale before acquiring Starbucks' retail operations with investors in 1987. Under his leadership, Starbucks developed from a small Seattle coffee business into an international chain built around prepared beverages, cafes, packaged products, and a standardized customer experience.
insights Ranking position
Howard Schultz ranks #27 of 170 in the Entrepreneur ranking, behind John Collison, ahead of Tobi Lutke.
help Howard Schultz FAQ
Did Howard Schultz found Starbucks?
No, Starbucks was founded in Seattle in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. Schultz joined the company in 1982 and later transformed it into the espresso-bar chain associated with his leadership.
What was Il Giornale and how did it become Starbucks?
Schultz founded Il Giornale after Starbucks' original owners declined to pursue his Italian cafe concept. In 1987, he and a group of investors acquired Starbucks' retail operations and adopted the Starbucks name.
What did Howard Schultz take from Italian coffee-bar culture?
A trip to Milan convinced Schultz that coffee shops could function as social meeting places, not merely stores selling beans. He adapted espresso drinks and cafe service for Starbucks while building a distinctly American chain rather than copying a single Italian company.
How many times did Howard Schultz serve as Starbucks CEO?
Schultz led Starbucks across three separate periods, including a temporary return in 2022. His earlier return in 2008 followed concerns that rapid expansion had weakened the customer experience.
explore Explore More
Similar to Howard Schultz
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
