Starbucks first opened its doors in April 1971 at Seattle’s historic Pike Place Market. It was an understated debut – a 1,000-square-foot mercantile space manned by a single employee – but it had plenty of special touches. Hand-built fixtures. A long wall boasting more than 30 varieties of whole-bean coffee. A seductive lady in the window logo. Even with its unassuming original sign, it’s easy to spot – just look for the line out the door.

Milestones

• 1971: Our first store opens in Seattle, selling whole-bean coffee, tea and spices.