Can Starbucks work in Italy?

While Starbucks is a big name in the US, and used to be a staple scene in romcoms, it hasn't always flourished outside its home country. In Australia it struggled for eight years before closing over 60 unprofitable stores, while in New Zealand it has always struggled against better offerings from other brands. Part of the reason for this is that franchises such as Columbus Coffee, The Coffee Club and Robert Harris are individually-owned by franchisees, while Starbucks outlets are operated under management by Restaurant Brands.

Now Starbucks is to expand into Italy, the home of espresso and the culture that reportedly inspired Starbucks founder Howard Schultz 30 years ago. Will it fare any better in one of the world's most style-conscious and sophisticated markets? Time will tell.