Target Names Starbucks Coffee Retailer for Canada Stores

Starbucks stores to open in majority of Target locations across the country

TORONTO, Feb. 15, 2012 /CNW/ - Target's Canadian guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the Starbucks experience while shopping as a result of a new agreement between Target Canada Co. and Starbucks Coffee Canada, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, the majority of the 125 - 135 Target locations across Canada will feature Starbucks licensed stores.

"Starbucks has been a valued partner for more than 12 years and an integral part of the Target guest experience in the U.S.," said John Morioka, senior vice president of merchandising, Target Canada. "Our goal is to bring the true Target brand shopping experience to our Canadian guests, so expanding our relationship with Starbucks as we enter the Canadian marketplace is a natural fit."

Starbucks store openings will coincide with Target's entrance into the Canadian market beginning in spring of 2013. In addition to offering guests their favourite customized beverages, many stores will have breakfast and lunch sandwich selections, as well as whole bean coffee and Starbucks VIA Ready Brew offerings, and other merchandise.

"We continually look for new and relevant opportunities to bring the Starbucks experience to communities across the country, and this strategic relationship represents another way we're able to create meaningful connections with both new and existing customers," said Colin Moore, president, Starbucks Canada. "Building on the success of our relationship in the U.S., we're excited to be joining forces with Target in Canada with a shared commitment to delivering high quality products and an in-store experience that reflects our common values."

Target opened its first Starbucks licensed store location in the United States in 1999.  There are now 1,097 Starbucks locations within Target stores in the U.S.

About Starbucks
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting the highest-quality arabica coffee in the world. Today, with more than 17,000 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 www.starbucks.com / www.starbucks.ca (Canada).

About Target
Minneapolis-based Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) serves guests at 1,763 stores across the United States and at Target.com. The company plans to open its first stores in Canada in 2013. In addition, the company operates a credit card segment that offers branded proprietary credit card products. Since 1946, Target has given 5 percent of its income through community grants and programs; today, that giving equals more than $3 million a week. For more information about Target's commitment to corporate responsibility, visit Target.com/hereforgood.

Lisa Gibson, Target Communications [phone]
Shannon Morton, Edelman [phone]