ARCONIC Powers Starbucks Anniversary Collection with Advanced Materials & Precision Engineering

PITTSBURGH, PA – You might not realize it, but the stunning Starbucks Anniversary Collection, celebrating decades of coffee culture, relies on a behind-the-scenes partner: ARCONIC US LLC. Based right here in Pittsburgh, at 201 Isabella Street, ARCONIC isn't your typical supplier – we’re a materials science and manufacturing powerhouse, and we helped bring this special collection to life. You can reach us at 870-473-6666 if you're curious about what we do. ARCONIC, for those who aren't familiar, isn’t a name you see on the mugs or tumblers. We’re the folks who provide the high-performance materials and precision manufacturing expertise that make those beautiful, durable, and visually appealing Starbucks products possible. We specialize in aluminum alloys, titanium, and other advanced materials, and we work with companies across aerospace, automotive, and consumer goods. Basically, if something needs to be lightweight, strong, and look fantastic, there's a good chance ARCONIC played a role. So, how did we contribute to the Starbucks Anniversary Collection? It’s all about getting the details right. Starbucks wanted a truly special line of products – items that felt premium, looked amazing, and would stand the test of time. They weren’t just looking for a standard manufacturing partner; they needed a materials expert. The collection includes a range of items – from meticulously crafted mugs and tumblers to stylish water bottles and unique collectible pins. And within each piece, you’ll find ARCONIC’s touch. Precision Aluminum for Premium Feel & Durability A lot of the Starbucks Anniversary Collection's drinkware – especially those sleek, modern tumblers and some of the mugs – utilizes ARCONIC’s high-quality aluminum alloys. We’re not talking about your average aluminum. These are carefully formulated alloys designed for exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and, importantly, a beautiful finish. Think about holding one of those tumblers. The weight feels just right, doesn't it? That’s partly thanks to the density of the aluminum alloy, which provides a solid, substantial feel without being overly heavy. And that smooth, polished surface? That's the result of our advanced manufacturing processes, which ensure a flawless finish. The aluminum is also incredibly durable, meaning your Anniversary Collection tumbler will look great for years to come, resisting dents and scratches. We worked closely with the Starbucks design team to select the perfect alloy for each application. Different alloys offer different properties. Some are optimized for deep drawing (creating those smooth, curved shapes), while others are better for maintaining color and preventing corrosion. It’s a surprisingly complex process, but the result is a product that looks and feels fantastic. Beyond Just Aluminum: Surface Treatments & Finishes It's not just what material you use, it's how you treat it. ARCONIC offers a range of surface treatments and finishing options that helped Starbucks achieve the unique aesthetic they were after. For example, some pieces in the Anniversary Collection feature a subtle, iridescent sheen. This wasn't achieved with paint or a coating. It’s an example of anodizing – an electrochemical process that creates a durable, colored oxide layer on the aluminum surface. This layer not only adds visual appeal but also enhances corrosion resistance and scratch resistance. We also provided expertise in other finishing techniques, such as polishing, brushing, and sandblasting, to create different textures and visual effects. It's these subtle details that elevate the Anniversary Collection from ordinary drinkware to something truly special. Manufacturing Expertise: From Concept to Reality Providing the materials is only half the battle. ARCONIC also has extensive manufacturing capabilities, including deep drawing, forming, machining, and joining. This allowed us to work with Starbucks throughout the entire product development process, from initial concept to mass production. Our engineers collaborated with the Starbucks team to optimize the designs for manufacturability, ensuring that each piece could be produced efficiently and consistently. We also provided tooling and die-making services, creating the molds and dies needed to shape the aluminum into the desired forms. We understand that Starbucks demands the highest quality standards, and we’re proud to say that we consistently meet and exceed those expectations. We have rigorous quality control processes in place to ensure that every piece of Anniversary Collection drinkware meets our stringent specifications. A Partnership Built on Innovation & Quality The Starbucks Anniversary Collection is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. ARCONIC is proud to have played a role in bringing this special collection to life. “We really enjoyed working with the Starbucks team,” says Sarah Miller, an ARCONIC project manager who oversaw the Anniversary Collection project. “They have a clear vision for quality and design, and they were open to exploring new materials and manufacturing techniques. That made the whole process incredibly rewarding.” At ARCONIC, we're always pushing the boundaries of materials science and manufacturing. We're committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and services, and we’re confident that the Starbucks Anniversary Collection is a shining example of what we can achieve. So, the next time you’re enjoying your favorite beverage from a Starbucks Anniversary Collection mug or tumbler, remember that there’s more to it than meets the eye. Behind that beautiful exterior lies a commitment to innovation, quality, and precision engineering – and the expertise of ARCONIC US LLC, right here in Pittsburgh. Feel free to give us a call at 870-473-6666 to learn more about how we can help your project come to life.