Starbucks Corp. is introducing a new line of merchandise designed to help support American jobs.
The coffee giant will sell a limited-edition mug, tumbler and bag of coffee – all made domestically – to raise money for its Create Jobs for USA fund,
the Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday.
Chief Executive Howard Schultz has loudly urged politicians and fellow business leaders to make a better effort at stimulating the U.S. economy. The fund is part of that campaign.
Other food service chains like Panera have started their own do-gooding efforts in recent years, according to the Times.
Starbucks has raised more than $11.5 million for the jobs fund so far, and plans to leverage that amount to eventually create up to $80 million in loans to community businesses and organizations. Citi, one of the country’s largest banks, pitched in with a $1 million donation.
Starting Tuesday until July 9, Starbucks cafes will feature products from its new line, dubbed “Indivisible” and manufactured in the U.S.
Items will include a 16-ounce acrylic tumbler made in Chicago with 35% recycled material. Out of the $11.95 retail price, Starbucks will make a $2 donation.
The company will donate another $2 for each $9.95, 12-ounce ceramic mug sold. The cups will be created in Ohio using domestically sourced materials. A whole-bean coffee blend, roasted and packaged in the U.S., will also be sold for $14.95 per pound – with $5 from each purchase being donated.
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