- Starbucks was founded in 1971 as the first retailer of whole bean coffee and has since expanded to over 22,000 stores globally. - The company has a mission to inspire and nurture the human spirit through coffee and currently operates in 67 countries worldwide. - In Argentina specifically, Starbucks first opened in 2008 and now has 60 locations, partnering with Alsea, a Mexican restaurant operator, to expand their presence in the country.