What was the original name of Starbucks when it opened in Seattle in 1971?

Starbucks was originally named Starbucks Coffee, Tea, and Spice when its first store opened in Seattle in 1971.

The company was founded by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. Its first shop operated at Seattle’s Pike Place Market and initially sold roasted coffee beans, tea, and spices rather than prepared espresso drinks.

The name later became Starbucks Coffee Company. A common mix-up is assuming that the modern company began primarily as a café chain; its early business focused on selling whole coffee beans and equipment.

Howard Schultz joined the company in 1982 and later helped shift its retail model toward Italian-style coffee beverages. That transformation followed Schultz’s purchase of the company in 1987.