Starbucks Coffee International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Starbucks Coffee Company (Nasdaq:SBUX - News), and the Delek Group of Israel today have mutually agreed to end their joint venture in Israel. Following this decision, Shalom Coffee Company, the joint venture between Starbucks Coffee International and the Delek Group, will close its six Starbucks stores in Tel Aviv. The decision to dissolve the joint venture has been due to on-going operational challenges in the market. "It was a very difficult decision," said Mark McKeon, president of Starbucks Coffee International for Europe, Middle East and Africa. "Following months of serious discussions and market reviews with the Delek Group, we came to this amicable and mutual decision. Our commitment in the market continues to be strong and long-term and we will return at an appropriate time. "As these are still very early days of our growth, we are committed to making strategic decisions to help ensure our future success," added McKeon.