NEWMAN — Starbucks has officially opened its doors in Newman, adding a new national brand to the city’s growing commercial corridor and employing between 20 to 25 people at its new location.

The coffee shop replaces the former Taco Bell site in the West Side Marketplace, and while the remodel timeline was never publicly confirmed, the store’s debut has already drawn a steady stream of customers. Employees say the location has been consistently busy, with both first-time visitors and longtime Starbucks fans stopping in for drinks and pastries.

The arrival of Starbucks is expected to boost Newman’s sales tax revenue and contribute to broader economic development goals. According to Starbucks’ corporate filings and industry estimates, the average U.S. Starbucks store generates about $1.4 million in annual revenue. This figure can vary based on location, foot traffic, and whether the store includes a drive-thru (which Newman’s does, and those tend to perform better).

With California cities typically receiving 1% of taxable sales through the state’s distribution system, Newman could see an estimated $14,000 per year in local sales tax from the new store.

That figure doesn’t include indirect benefits such as increased foot traffic to neighboring businesses, property tax contributions, or employment-related spending. The store’s drive-thru and indoor seating also offer added convenience for commuters and residents alike.

Starbucks joins a growing list of national chains in Newman, including Burger King and AutoZone, as the city continues to evolve from its small-town roots into a regional hub for retail and services. City planners say the addition of a high-volume retailer like Starbucks signals commercial viability and may encourage further investment in the area.

Whether residents are sipping lattes or seeking local alternatives, Newman’s business landscape is shifting—and the conversation around growth is far from over.