Starbucks® company-operated stores are typically located in high-traffic, high-visibility locations. Their ability to vary the size and format of their stores allows them to locate them in or near a variety of settings, including downtown and suburban retail centers, office buildings, university campuses, and in select rural and off-highway locations. They are continuing the expansion of their various store formats, including Drive Thru and express stores, to provide a greater degree of access and convenience for their customers. Starbucks employed approximately 238,000 people worldwide as of September 27, 2015.