Star(t loosing)Bucks

  As I sit here in Grissim Hall writing this blog, I sip on my Peppermint Mocha Starbucks coffee.  I have the option to get free coffee, even espresso, from my current residence.  Yet I, as a consumer, choose to spend four dollars and something cents for the same thing (with probably more filler).  So why do I and other consumers choose to spend more money when we know we can get something similar for cheaper.  Personally, during the holiday season I enjoy the winter coffees like peppermint mocha or gingerbread, and this is what motivated me tonight.  I believe a lot of other consumers enjoy the flavors of Starbucks coffee like I do and are also motivated to but coffee due to this one factor.  Deeper than the flavors you'll find the outrageous amount of caffeine.  Starbucks was found in a study to have had a significant amount more of caffeine than the other competition (http://www.slate.com/id/2107807/).  I would venture to say that this mass amount of caffeine not only helps feed consumers addiction, but also makes the addiction stronger.  I feel I must also say I have never seen a Starbucks empty, in fact I have trouble going to store that isn't packed on campus.  I even find myself thinking everyday, "well, I could make myself just a small cup of coffee before class).  Do I need it? No, but I also do not consider myself at the addiction point.  I can go a few days without any coffee or caffeine and be completely fine.  I have witnessed consumers wanting a large coffee like their life depends on it, everyday.  Their obsession started probably the same way that my minor enjoyment started, enjoying a cup every once in a while.  I have to give other industry competitors credit for keeping a close pace to Starbucks.  Dunkin' Doughnuts is known for a good cup of regular coffee, and if a business man is late on his way to work would not be disappointed to stop here for a decent cup.  Another surprising competitor is McDonald's.  They have always offered coffee for sale but it was just normal coffee and not the best.  They have renovated their coffee strategy and now offer flavored drinks among their many available options.  They not only offer drinks similar to Starbucks, but they offer them at a much lower price.  Personally, as a consumer of these products I believe that McDonalds' coffee has a lot less coffee (caffeine) and a lot more filler.  That probably is part of the reason Starbucks keeps consumers flocking to their product.  Whatever the reason consumers choose to be a loyal customer to Starbucks, the company has accomplished a successful way to run a business targeting their audience.