SEATTLE (AP) — Starbucks has unveiled a lighter-roast coffee as the company tries to reach a wider base of consumers.
The Seattle-based coffee company unveiled its blonde roast Tuesday, a major departure from the company’s typically dark-roasted beans.
Starbucks has long faced criticism from people who feel its coffee is too dark or bitter. The company said it developed the new roast for the large number of U.S. consumers who prefer a lighter coffee.
The new roast will be sold in its stores and at retailers beginning in January.
Starbucks Coffee Co. is the world’s largest coffee company with roughly 17,000 stores worldwide and products in retailers across the country.
