Starbucks recently announced the opening of its first store in Grand Turk, marking a milestone for Starbucks and Caribbean Coffee Traders Ltd. as the first store on the islands of Turks & Caicos.

This store represents the company’s 82nd market globally, and 20th market in the Latin America and Caribbean region, marking an important milestone for the global coffee brand’s Caribbean operations.

“We are delighted to open our first store in the tropical and exotic island of Turks and Caicos”, said Tim Grever, director of operations for Starbucks Caribbean markets. “We are confident that along with Caribbean Coffee Traders Ltd, we will deliver a unique and exceptional coffee experience for Turks and Caicos Islanders, one that truly showcases our deep passion for some of the best coffees from around the world, while honouring the local culture.”

The widely anticipated café, located on the Grand Turk Cruise Port, offers customers an inviting destination to relax, unwind and connect. This store features a cafe design unique to the island and offers the commonly known range of Starbucks signature beverages and food, including Starbucks ethically sourced, 100 per cent arabica coffee.

“This milestone demonstrates our commitment and enthusiasm for the region and our optimism for the opportunities ahead. We are excited to become the island’s hub for coffee, connection and community,” stated Mr Ian Dear, Chairman of the Margaritaville Caribbean Group.

A Unique Store Experience for Grand Turk

Although situated on a cruise port, Starbucks will be the first café of its kind to call Grand Turk “home”, giving locals and tourists a feel of the true Starbucks experience through a unique customer service and Starbucks range of signature beverages and food offerings. These offerings include exquisite coffees from around the world, such as the Asia-Pacific and Latin America regions.

The stunning pink exterior keeps the authentic Caribbean feel of the café, where the indoor palette was kept light to keep the tropical theme. The back of the store features a mural, hand-painted by artist Maria Camila Bernal Toro of Remedios Art, showing the Siren – a Starbucks icon – with her double-tail bent underwater.

The artist recreated the Siren to evoke the same tranquillity and pleasure so many travellers in the past were rumoured to search for among the Sea. Using a chromatic composition which was inspired by the natural coral and mystic of the island, the Siren inspires peace and warmth – recreating the history of Starbucks in a contemporary and tropical language.