News

One of the best parts about Panama is the combination of exotic and familiar, the way you can find new adventures and still enjoy the comforts of home.

A great example: good ol’ Starbucks, the ubiquitous coffee chain that is a staple in many U.S. and global neighborhoods. Starbucks stores and their strong coffee and uncomfortable seats are an established part of Panamanian life.

To be fair, coffee is a big part of life in Panama. And there are many other chains and small coffee shops offering some of the best coffee in the world. Starbucks has a lot of competition in Panama.

That said, it’s still a sign of Panama’s place in the modern world of commerce that Starbucks has a firmly established base here. Last week, the company celebrated its 10th anniversary in Panama, marking “a decade of shared moments, meaningful connections, and a deep-rooted passion for coffee.”

Operated in Panama by Caribbean Coffee Traders, Starbucks now has more than 19 coffeehouses nationwide, with more than 130 employees (Starbucks calls them “partners.”) The first Starbucks in Panama opened in the Street Mall in 2015.

“We are incredibly grateful to our partners, customers, and communities who have supported us on this journey,” said Sofia Moreno, General Manager of Starbucks Panama. “Our success over the past decade is a testament to the power of human connection and the shared love for coffee that transcends cultures and generations.”

The company recently opened a new store at the Hilton Hotel, with new outlets “coming soon” to the Westland Mall and Costa del Este.