Starbucks Philippines, in its pursuit of becoming a resource-positive company, reiterates its commitment to giving back more to the planet than it takes. As the company celebrates its 25th year milestone, a series of impactful initiatives reflects its dedication to creating positive change in the communities it serves.
Prioritizing Well-being and Sustainability
President Noey Lopez emphasizes the guiding principle driving Starbucks Philippines: prioritizing the well-being of customers and giving more than what is taken from the planet. It’s not just a promise; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future. “Our local initiatives align with the company’s promise to contribute positively to our communities and have also evolved to reflect our commitment to sustainable practices through our partners (employees) and customers. As we navigate towards a more sustainable future, our guiding principle remains unwavering — by prioritizing the well-being of our customers and giving more than what we take from our planet.”
Social Impact Initiatives: Empowering Communities
Achieving Gender Pay Equity
Since 2021, Starbucks Philippines has achieved a remarkable milestone by ensuring 100% gender pay equity. The commitment to inclusion and diversity has created opportunities for all partners, with female employees now representing more than 50% of the Starbucks Philippines workforce.
Community Store for Youth Education
In September 2023, Starbucks Philippines opened its inaugural Community Store in partnership with the Young Focus Foundation and AHA! Learning Center. The Abad Santos Tondo Community Store focuses on advancing youth education, with a portion of every purchase contributing to scholarships and after-school programs.
Starbucks Foodshare Program
Launched in March 2022 in collaboration with the Philippine Food Bank Foundation and Grab Philippines, the Starbucks Foodshare program has become a nationwide effort. The company has donated close to 1 million rescuable food items to communities in need, addressing food waste while supporting those facing hunger.
Providing Clean Water and Meals
Through partnerships with The Starbucks Foundation and Planet Water Foundation, Starbucks Philippines has provided access to clean, safe drinking water and hygiene education to over 7,000 people across Luzon. The construction of a fourth AquaTower in San Antonio Central School, Quezon, in April 2023, marks another milestone.
Global Community Impact Grants
Starbucks Philippines, through Global Community Impact Grants awarded by The Starbucks Foundation, strengthens its partnership with Gawad Kalinga’s Kusina ng Kalinga. This collaboration has served close to 250,000 meals to 1,800 children in Metro Manila, Cebu, Camarines Sur, and Bohol, making a meaningful difference in the fight against hunger.
Sipping Sustainability: Starbucks Philippines’ Environmental Commitments
Greener Stores for a Greener Tomorrow
In a monumental step towards environmental sustainability, Starbucks Philippines opened its first two Greener Stores this year. Located at The Shops at Ayala Triangle Garden and One Ayala, these stores are designed to reduce carbon emissions, minimize water usage, and cut landfill waste.
Plastic Credit Exchange Partnership
Actively involved in waste management, Starbucks Philippines, in partnership with the Plastic Credit Exchange, has offset over 200 metric tons of plastic as of 2023. The Aling Tindera Site in Palatiw, Pasig, serves as a livelihood center and a plastic waste collection hub.
Ongoing Waste Reduction Efforts
As part of ongoing waste reduction efforts, Starbucks Philippines has transitioned to 100% paper straws in all stores and for delivery orders. The shift from bubble wrap to carton boxes and carton filters in packages from their official Lazada store since 2021 further reinforces the commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Encouraging Reusables: Discounts and Rewards
Customers are encouraged to bring their reusable cups or tumblers, enjoying a Php 10 discount on handcrafted drinks. During the Starbucks Global Month of Good in April, Rewards members received 5 Bonus Stars for choosing reusables.
Explore Starbucks’ Impact
Starbucks invites everyone to learn more about its social impact and sustainability journey by visiting Starbucks Philippines’ Social Impact.
