Starbucks Launches Free Digital Network

Starbucks has teamed up with Patch, Yahoo!, The Weather Channel, Foursquare and other national names in electronic media to launch a new digital network serving its stores.

The coffee company, which has two North Fork locations in Greenport and Mattituck, announced today the creation of the Starbucks Digital Network, which is available via free wi-fi to customers using laptops, tablets and smart phones in its stores.

Stephen Gillett, Starbucks executive vice president, chief information officer and Digital Ventures general manager, said the inspiration behind the move came from the customers themselves.

"They've told us they want to be the first to know what's happening in their neighborhoods and around the globe, to have an easy way to discover new music, great books and important films and find ways to be more involved in their communities," Gillett said. "And they're connecting with the brand digitally in numerous ways."

"What you see today, is only the beginning," added Adam Brotman, Starbucks Digital Ventures vice president. "Expect more localized content and community features in the future, more ways to personalize your experience, new ways to be rewarded and an ever-growing collection of premium content."

Donna Garvey, manager of both North Fork stores, was not available for comment this morning.