In symbolic move, Starbucks to open first shop in Italy

NEW YORK (AP) — Starbucks says it plans to enter probably its most intimidating market yet: Italy.

The coffee chain said Sunday that the first Starbucks will open in Milan in early 2017, in partnership with Italian developer Percassi.

It's a symbolic move for the 45-year-old company and its CEO, Howard Schultz. On a business trip in the 1980s, Schultz visited Milan and Verona and decided to bring espresso drinks to the U.S. The concept took off, and Starbucks became the beverage giant it is today.

Starbucks already has a presence in Europe, but has not seen the success it has seen in other markets. Italy is expected to prove a challenge. Coffee is a deep part of the culture, with myriad local shops competing to sell espresso and cappuccinos.