Back in late 2017, Starbucks announced a plan to launch a bakery-cafe chain separate from its household name. As someone who looks forward to Starbucks treats, I’m quite intrigued by the prospect of a sister chain dedicated to yummy food. Since it’s clear that this new Starbucks bakery chain could be a game changer for the company as we know it, here’s everything we know so far:
A New Partnership is Brewing
Starbucks has teamed up with Princi, an Italian bakery-cafe with 5 locations in Europe. Princi was first opened in 1986 by bread-lover Rocco Princi. Starbucks founder, Howard Schultz, was impressed by Princi’s passion and believes that customers are going to fall in love with Princi bakeries.
This is Not the First Attempt
Starbucks attempted to launch a bakery-cafe chain in 2012 when it purchased bakery chain La Boulange. The endeavor only lasted 3 years before Starbucks closed every La Boulange location. Considering the company’s enthusiasm and efforts towards this new partnership, let’s hope this time it takes off.
It’s High-End
Princi bakeries are meant to feel classy and high-end, at coffee reserve or roastery locations. What’s cool about this is that it’s upfront about its image. If you’re looking for is a cake pop and a frapp, your local Starbucks is still your best bet. But if you’re looking for something a bit more on the next level, Princi is where you want to go.
Plenty to Choose From
At Princi, there will be something for everyone’s flavor palette. With over 100 menu items to choose from, how could you not find something you like? Whether it’s a light breakfast consisting of a croissant and coffee, or a quick bite in the form of a sandwich, you’ll be sure to leave with something. Princi will also be a place to check out for lunch with offerings like pizza, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. In addition, food offerings change according to time. Breakfast foods will be offered until 10:30AM, and soups start to be offered at that time as well.
Made Fresh
You know that feeling when you order a pastry that looks soft and flaky, only to be disappointed by a hard shell that’s been sitting in a case all day? You won’t have that at Princi. Baking will be done fresh on-site everyday, with items being made from 3AM-11PM.
Star Rewards Galore
Starbucks Rewards™ members will be glad to know that you can use your Starbucks card to make purchases and earn stars at Princi locations. There is also a special Princi Starbucks card, so if you don’t currently have a Starbucks card, there’s no pressure.
Adult Beverages Available
If you’re in the mood for wine or a spritz after a long day, Princi is the place to go. The bakery also has it’s own signature cocktails as part of its growing drink menu. As a plus, when you buy a cocktail between 4PM and 6PM, small food options like pizza bites are offered to snack on with your drink
Familiar Brews
While living under the Princi name, these new bakeries will, of course, be serving Starbucks brand coffee, which should be comforting to any Starbucks aficionados out there.
The First Location is Open
Starbucks opened its first Princi location in the US at a Seattle Reserve Roastery on `Tuesday, July 31. The company plans to open 1,000 Princi bakeries worldwide with plans already in motion for Chicago and New York City, so here’s to hoping that this Seattle location does exceedingly well. I for one, cannot wait to enjoy the Princi experience.