history of seattle’s best coffee

A Brew Through Time: The History of Seattle’s Best Coffee

Seattle’s Best Coffee, initially known as the Wet Whisker, began its journey in 1969 on Pier 70. What started as a simple ice cream and coffee shop transformed into a significant player in the specialty coffee industry, eventually becoming a subsidiary of Starbucks in 2003.

Early Days: From Wet Whisker to Steamers

The story starts with Jim Stewart, who opened the Wet Whisker in 1969. It wasn’t exclusively a coffee shop, also serving ice cream and other treats. The turning point came with Stewart’s passion for finding the perfect coffee bean and roasting process. He began experimenting, aiming for a smoother, less bitter cup than what was typically available at the time. This experimentation led to the development of a distinct roasting profile, and the business shifted its focus towards coffee. Recognizing this shift, the name was changed to Steamers Espresso, indicating its core product.

The Rise of Seattle’s Best Coffee

In 1982, the company officially became Seattle’s Best Coffee (SBC). This rebranding signaled a move towards wider recognition and expansion. The company’s commitment to quality beans and roasting practices helped it gain popularity in the competitive Seattle coffee scene. They opened more retail locations and also started selling their beans to other businesses. This wholesale aspect was crucial in expanding their reach beyond just the Seattle area. By the 1990s, SBC had become a well-established brand, known for its milder roasts compared to some of its rivals.

Acquisition by Starbucks

In 2003, Starbucks acquired Seattle’s Best Coffee. This acquisition was a strategic move by Starbucks to capture a different segment of the coffee market. Starbucks aimed to utilize SBC’s brand recognition and its milder roasts to appeal to customers who preferred a less intense coffee experience. While Starbucks continued to operate SBC stores, the brand also saw a shift towards licensing agreements, placing SBC kiosks and counters in bookstores, supermarkets, and other retail locations. The acquisition is mentioned on Seattle’s Best Coffee Wikipedia page.

Seattle’s Best Coffee Today

Today, Seattle’s Best Coffee maintains a presence, primarily through licensed locations and distribution channels. Although the retail footprint isn’t as prominent as it once was, the brand continues to offer its signature blends and roasts to a diverse customer base. Under Starbucks’ ownership, the focus has been on making SBC coffee accessible in a wider range of settings, further solidifying its place in the broader coffee landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Seattle’s Best Coffee originally called?

It was originally called Wet Whisker.

When did Starbucks acquire Seattle’s Best Coffee?

Starbucks acquired Seattle’s Best Coffee in 2003.

What is Seattle’s Best Coffee known for?

It is known for its milder coffee roasts and flavors compared to other coffee brands.

Does Seattle’s Best Coffee still have its own stores?

While some standalone stores exist, Seattle’s Best Coffee primarily operates through licensed locations within other businesses like bookstores and supermarkets.

Where did Seattle’s Best Coffee start?

It started on Pier 70 in Seattle, Washington.

Summary

Seattle’s Best Coffee evolved from a simple coffee and ice cream shop to a prominent coffee brand. Its focus on quality beans and milder roasts helped it gain recognition in the competitive Seattle coffee market. Acquired by Starbucks in 2003, SBC continues to offer its signature blends through various retail channels, maintaining its place in the coffee industry.