Environmental Factors and Marketing Decisions: StarbucksStarbucks has a wide range of business activities. These activities allow the company to use numerous product distribution channels. With the company operating in many locations around the world, environmental factors play a major role in marketing decisions. Each distribution channel is affected differently and the company's flexibility in its marketing plan allows it to adjust its strategies to meet the needs of environmental factors. Starbucks is known as the number one best coffee company in the world. They source and roast high-quality whole bean coffee, selling it alongside fresh, rich Italian-style espresso drinks, pastries, confectionery, and coffee-related accessories and equipment. Starbucks provides a work environment in which others are treated with respect and dignity. The company views diversity as an essential part of how Starbucks does business. Starbucks also applies the highest standards of excellence to the purchasing, roasting and fresh delivery of its coffee. Starbucks believes that the company must always delight its customers with enthusiasm and contribute positively to our communities and our environment and recognize that profitability is essential to our future success (Starbucks.com, 2008).