Starbucks, an American global coffee company and coffeehouse chain, and Korean firm Shinsegae have signed a new distribution agreement with Sealand Natural Resources, a functional beverage manufacturer in the country.

Through the agreement, Shinsegae has agreed to sell organic birch tree beverage Sealand BIRK under the Starbucks label at around 400 Starbucks’ stores in Korea.

Commenting on the deal, Sealand Natural Resource chief executive officer Lars Poulsen said that the company’s agent in Korea, Mr. Jason Kim, with beverage distribution to over 800 stores throughout Korea, worked alongside the Sealand team during the execution of this exclusive agreement with Starbucks and Shinsegae Corporation, which has produced a fantastic result.

"We are very optimistic about the possibility of capitalizing on this relationship with Starbucks Corporation, not only for the vast network of international distribution possibilities but also because they have revolutionized the market with regard to premium beverages and we are proud to be associated with their name," added Poulsen.

Starbucks, which operates as a roaster, marketer, and retailer of specialty coffee, offers coffee and tea beverages, packaged roasted whole bean and ground coffees, single serve products, and juices and bottled water.