Starbucks first established itself as a company in 1971 as a small player in the local Seattle, Washington coffee market. Inspired by one of its eventual competitors, Peet's Coffee and Tea, the founders of Starbucks focused on providing high-quality dark roasted coffee drinks.

In the early 1980's Howard Schultz took interest in the company after he became impressed with their business model. Sensing that the company had high potential beyond the Seattle market, Schultz convinced Starbucks' founders to let him come on board as their head of marketing.

Under Schultz's direction, the amount of Starbucks locations expanded across the United States. Schultz was also responsible for expanding the company's menu to include a focus on fresh-brewed coffee, espresso, and cappuccino.

• Target Maturity Funds

• Funds State Unclaimed Washington

• American Funds Break Points

  Glossary. This glossary is designed to help you learn more about investing and about the mutual funds, retirement plans and variable annuities offered by American Funds.

• Canadian Mutual Funds Review

• Consulting Group Capital Markets Funds