Starbucks, a global chain of coffeehouses with more than 15,000 locations in 50 countries, caters to customers who want coffee, specialty drinks and quick snacks. Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl and Gordon Bowker opened the first Starbucks in 1971 in Seattle. Starbucks aims to serve quality coffee to its customers while helping make the world a better place, according to the company's website.
Definition
While the term "fast food" conjures images of burger chains, according to "QSR Magazine," the term now applies to food and drinks that can be purchased and served quickly. Examples of this type of restaurant include Panera and Subway.
Starbucks Service
Starbucks provides customers with coffee at prices comparable to those of its competitors, as well as ready-made desserts, sandwiches and other snacks. Starbucks locations are found in airports, shopping malls, grocery stores, freestanding stores, strip malls and other retail outlets. Some Starbucks locations feature drive-through windows for added convenience.
Starbucks Fits Designation
Starbucks fits the "QSR Magazine" definition of fast food as a restaurant or stand that provides drinks and snacks easily and quickly.