Wednesday, September 15, 2010

The Strabucks Way


I have been longing to write this article for a long time now, but have been giving it a miss, just because it doesn’t seem to fit into the category of my previous articles. Then I thought why shouldn’t I try something different? So, here comes this article.
If you have known me well, you would know that my flair for a cup of coffee is eternal. Obviously, I have been a Starbucks addict, ever since I landed in the US. Phrases like, “When in US, you are never too far from Strabucks”, “Don’t know where Starbucks is located, just peep out of your window and you should find one” are often cited to make you understand the brand power of this coffee chain giant.

Why I love Starbucks is because the way in which they do their business. Firstly, I feel that each item on the menu is great and reasonably priced. It is genuine role model for corporate ethics. Be it recycling or offering free Wi-Fi to their customers, they would always set a fine example. And another thing I really like about Starbucks is, each time you buy something they would ask if we need a receipt. And only if you need, they would print it out and thereby reducing a lot of paper waste (It is estimated that more than 80% of receipts are not needed by the customers) Applying common sense, coupled with good intentions make them a class apart. Of course other coffee chains can emulate these methods, can’t they?

If you ever get an opportunity to visit Starbucks, please don’t miss it. Since I’m an old school, my choice would be a cup of brewed coffee, with little sugar and cream. Of course, you may try out many more flavors. Good news is that Starbucks will be soon seen in India.