Starbucks began in 1971 as a roaster and retailer of coffee beans and related products with a single store in Seattle. It has since grown into a global brand with over 21,000 retail stores across 66 countries. Starbucks aims to inspire customers through high-quality coffee and a welcoming store environment. The company focuses on ethical sourcing of coffee beans and environmental sustainability while fostering community involvement. Starbucks strives to treat its employees, called partners, with respect through health benefits and equity ownership in the company.