Food

Starbucks Opens Tea-Only Store in Sapporo

SAPPORO, Jul 24 (News On Japan) - A new Starbucks store specializing in tea will open in central Sapporo on August 7th, marking the chain’s first such location in northern Japan, including Hokkaido and the Tohoku region.

The store, named "Starbucks Tea & Café," will be located on the second floor of the Sapporo 4-Chome Place shopping complex, across from the existing Starbucks at Parco.

With a wide variety of caffeine-free options and teas known for their relaxing effects, the new store is designed to appeal to health-conscious customers and those who prefer tea over coffee. Some menu items will be served in teapots upon request, and the lineup includes fragrant Earl Grey-based blends and tea-infused Frappuccinos that highlight the aroma of the tea leaves.

"Taking a sip really helps you relax. It fills your mouth with a sweet, floral fragrance," said a local reporter who tried the tea.

Starbucks has offered both coffee and tea since its founding, but the new concept store focuses exclusively on tea. According to Sayami Otomo of Starbucks Coffee Japan, "One of the charms of tea is that it supports wellness. We believe this store offers a new way for people to enjoy Starbucks, especially those mindful of caffeine."

By strengthening its tea offerings, Starbucks aims to make its cafés a more viable choice for customers who avoid coffee, broadening its appeal.

This will be the 21st Starbucks Tea & Café in Japan, but the first to open north of the Kanto region.

Source: HBCニュース　北海道放送

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