Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts

With the recent financial problems of the Starbucks franchise causing layoffs and store closings, it would seem that Starbucks may be in trouble. Why? What is the underlying reason why Starbucks is hurting and Dunkin Donuts is not? Is it due to the recent Wall Street mess and massive layoffs of Lehman Brothers, among others, leaving thousands of “well paid” financial junkies unemployed and no longer buying the higher priced hot or cold beverages from one of the coffee bean giants? If we have massive layoffs in our Police Departments will Dunkin Donuts fall?

Although Starbucks has a good product line and impressive storefronts adds to the mystery. Does America run on Dunkin? These are good questions. I think Starbucks coffees are not only too high priced for today’s market but their coffees are very strong as well. I know, we all need a good strong cup of coffee every once in a while, especially the morning after a long night of downing way too many Mojitos’ (I’ve been there). Their selection is nice as well and I do admit I indulge in a cappuccino, mocha latte, Chi Tea every once in a while, it’s the “once in a while” part that’s the issue.

I find that Starbucks is more like a “Coffee Restaurant” and a high end one at that. Dunkin Donuts is more of a “fast food” coffee place, where people on the go will grab a quick cup (or more) to help get them thru the day. Heck they even have drive- thru’s. Besides the fact that you know what size coffee you’re going to get when you go to DD’s whereas you need a translator to figure out what to ask for in Starbucks.

I am an avid coffee drinker and just a regular, hard working, limited income type of guy, so in my humble opinion, in these troubling times of financial recession, I think Starbucks should re-vamp their product line, reduce prices and make their products more affordable to the general public. Knock off the “Grande” crap too, just call it what it is. Small, medium, large or in some cases a small pot. I think people like Starbucks overall and we would hate to see you go. So bite the bullet and start brewing for less. The “Buck” stops here…

Mr. Coffee Cup