SEATTLE -- Starbucks Coffee Company (Nasdaq: SBUX) is pleased to announce that it has been selected as a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI) after meeting specific criteria in economic, environmental and social dimensions. This marks the fifth time Starbucks has been named to the index series.

"Being recognized by the socially responsible financial community is a compliment to Starbucks commitment to incorporate corporate social responsibility into all facets of our business," said Sandra Taylor, senior vice president, Corporate Social Responsibility. "As we continue to grow to meet our consumers' needs through retail stores and product innovation, we remain true to our mission and guiding principles."

More than 2,500 companies from 30 countries were invited to participate in the annual assessment and approximately 300 companies were ultimately included. Starbucks total score for the 2004 DJSI review was the best score in the restaurants and lodging industry group.

Launched in 1999, the DJSI tracks the financial performance of leading sustainability-driven companies worldwide. Based on the cooperation of Dow Jones Indexes, STOXX Limited and SAM Group, the index provides asset managers with reliable and objective benchmarks to manage sustainability portfolios. By bringing together the expertise of two leading index providers and the world-renowned pioneer in sustainability investing, the DJSI family rests on a strong foundation to meet the growing market demand for professional, objective and reliable sustainability benchmarks. Additional information about the DJSI can be found online at www.sustainability-indexes.com.

Starbucks Corporation is the leading retailer, roaster and brand of specialty coffee in the world, with more than 8,000 retail locations in North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and the Pacific Rim. The Company is committed to offering the highest quality coffee and the Starbucks Experience while conducting its business in ways that produce social, environmental and economic benefits for communities in which it does business.

Starbucks Corporation

Starbucks Corporation

It's the way we do business Contributing positively to our communities and environment is so important to Starbucks that it's a guiding principle of our mission statement. We jointly fulfill this commitment with partners (employees), at all levels of the company, by getting involved together to help build stronger communities and conserve natural resources.

More from Starbucks Corporation