**Introduction to Peet's Coffee** Peet's Coffee is a renowned specialty coffee roaster and retailer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded in 1966 by Alfred Peet, a Dutch immigrant, it revolutionized the U.S. coffee industry by introducing darker roasted Arabica coffee beans and European roasting techniques to the American market[1][4]. Peet's is often credited with sparking the specialty coffee movement, which has had a profound impact on how Americans consume coffee. **History and Key Achievements** Alfred Peet opened his first store in Berkeley, California, near the University of California campus. Initially, the store sold whole coffee beans for home brewing, emphasizing freshness and quality[2][3]. In the early years, Peet trained the founders of Starbucks, including Jerry Baldwin, who later bought Peet's locations and played a significant role in its expansion[1][4]. One of Peet's most notable blends is Major Dickason's Blend, created in collaboration with Key Dickason[1]. **Current Status** Today, Peet's is part of JDE Peet's, the world's largest pure-play coffee and tea company, with operations in over 100 markets globally[7]. Peet's has expanded significantly since its inception, acquiring brands like Mighty Leaf Tea, Stumptown Coffee Roasters, and Intelligentsia Coffee[1][3]. Despite its growth, Peet's remains committed to its core values of quality and freshness. **Notable Aspects** Peet's is known for its loyal customer base, often referred to as "Peetniks," who appreciate its bold flavors and artisanal roasting methods[6]. The company continues to innovate while maintaining its heritage as a pioneer in the specialty coffee industry. Peet's acquisition by JAB Holding in 2012 marked a significant milestone in its expansion strategy[3]. Currently, Peet's operates several hundred coffee bars and is recognized as a leader