Location Types
What Is a Licensed Starbucks?
Updated May 2026 · Independent guide
Definition
A licensed Starbucksis a location operated by a third-party company under a licensing agreement with Starbucks Corporation — not by Starbucks itself. The most common licensees are Target Corporation (which operates Starbucks counters inside many Target stores), airport food service operators (HMS Host, OTG, Delaware North), university dining services, and hospital concession companies. Licensed locations use the Starbucks name, logo, and core menu, but operate under the host venue's hours, staffing, and policies. Key differences from company-operated stores include: shorter menu availability, limited or no Mobile Order & Pay support, potential Starbucks Rewards restrictions, and hours set by the host venue rather than Starbucks corporate schedules.
Company-Operated vs Licensed
| Feature | Company-Operated | Licensed |
|---|---|---|
| Hours | Set by Starbucks corporate | Set by host venue |
| Full menu | Yes | Shorter — may omit Refreshers, Reserve |
| Mobile Order & Pay | Yes (most locations) | Usually not |
| Starbucks Rewards | Full — Stars earned & redeemed | Varies — may be limited |
| Gift cards | Yes — reload in-store | Varies |
| Holiday closures | Follows Starbucks schedule | Follows venue schedule |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a licensed Starbucks?
A licensed Starbucks is a location operated by a third-party licensee rather than Starbucks Corporation directly. Common licensees include Target Corporation, airport food service operators, university dining services, and hospital concession companies. Licensed stores use the Starbucks name and menu but are not company-operated.
Are licensed Starbucks hours different?
Yes. Licensed Starbucks locations follow the host venue's schedule. A Starbucks inside Target opens and closes with Target — typically 8 AM to 10 PM. Airport Starbucks hours are set by the terminal operator. University campus locations may be closed on weekends or during semester breaks.
Can you use Starbucks Rewards at licensed stores?
It depends on the licensee. Most licensed locations inside Target and many airport Starbucks accept Starbucks Cards and allow Stars to be earned. However, some licensed locations cannot process Stars at all, and promotions available at company stores may not apply.
Does Mobile Order & Pay work at licensed Starbucks?
Usually not. Mobile Order & Pay (placing an order through the Starbucks app for pickup) is generally only available at company-operated stores. Licensed locations — including most Target Starbucks — do not appear in the app for mobile ordering.
How can you tell if a Starbucks is licensed?
The easiest way is to check the store's page on this directory or in the Starbucks app. The Starbucks app labels licensed stores. Physically, licensed locations are often smaller, have a shorter menu board, and are located inside another retailer or venue rather than as a standalone building.