Starbucks raises some beverage prices, lowers others

Seattle Starbucks Corp. is raising prices on certain harder-to-make beverages -- and cutting the costs for simpler ones such as a plain cup of coffee, the company said Thursday. The price hikes, on average between 10 cents and 15 cents and as much as 30 cents, went into effect Thursday in select markets.

The increases are being added to "complex" drinks, such as the company's blended frappuccino. More basic beverages -- the latte and plain coffee, among others -- will see prices decreased by 5 cents to 15 cents. More prices are increasing than being lowered.

Starbucks said the price hikes will eventually roll out nationwide in the coming months. Officials said prices will vary by region to cover higher labor and material costs.

"This is as a part of our comprehensive approach to providing the value while balancing our business responsibilities," said spokeswoman Valerie O'Neil.