Starbucks set to launch new everyday coffee

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - As part of its bid to reinvigorate lackluster U.S. traffic, Starbucks Corp on Tuesday will introduce a new, everyday brew called Pike Place Roast and for 30 minutes will hand out free 8-ounce samples.

Free cups of the new coffee, which the company said has a smoother flavor and finish, will be available starting at 9 a.m. at all company-operated stores in the United States.

Andrew Linnemann, Starbucks master coffee blender, said in a conference call with reporters on Monday that Pike Place and Pike Place decaffeinated will be offered daily, along with a third bold-style coffee.

Linnemann declined to reveal the source of the beans used in the Pike Place blend, which will sell for $9.95 per pound (454 grams).

Pike Place blend, named for the company's early Seattle outpost, will roll out in domestic markets only, said Linnemann, who added that Starbucks is evaluating what brews will be best for international markets.

Traffic to Starbucks' U.S. stores has been slowing in recent months, amid a broad-based economic downturn and stiffer competition from companies such as McDonald's Corp, which is aggressively targeting the specialty brewed coffee market that Starbucks helped establish.