Starbucks began by purchasing roasted beans from Peets Coffee and Teas. Peets was founded by Dutch immigrant Alfred Peets. Years later, in 1983, Howard Schulz was in Milan on business and saw the coffee houses there. Long story, shortened, this led to his development of what would eventually turn into Starbucks espresso cafes.
Source: Starbucks | Description, History, & Facts | Britannica
The interesting point here is the importance of international and global experience that led to the development of what would become the largest coffeehouse chain in the world.
Howard Schulz, back for his 3rd round as interim CEO, will soon be replaced by Laxman Narasimhan, who also has tremendous international experience.
I write this while sitting in Starbucks! Unfortunately, I can no longer have anything with caffeine so my drink choices are a bit limited. Perhaps in a few months I can try decaf coffee again – I hope! (Decaf contains some caffeine.)
