McDonalds vs. Starbucks???

I've been reading all over the internet that Starbucks is testing out cheaper coffee in Seattle to combat competition - and the example that keeps getting used is McDonalds. Are you kidding me?? What? Come on people - think about this for a second - who in the world says,

""Hmmm, I feel like grabing an Americano or a Latte on the way to work today - or wait - now that McDonald's is selling a "premium" blend coffee, and I'd really rather have a McGriddle too - I'll just go there..."

Does that really happen?? NOT in the world in which I live... In Austin, Texas the Starbucks crowd and the McDonald's crowd do not coexist. It's like meat eaters and PETA. or SUV drivers and Prius advocates. I understand that Starbucks has competition - but give me a freakin' break - it is not McDonalds!!

Personally, I only drink Starbucks when I travel. For me, oddly, it's the "fast-food" of coffee joints. There is one everywhere, and so I know I can grab one at the airport or on the road and get a relatively good product. So, the two joints are kind of alike - but the similarities end there for me.

Perhaps the reason Starbucks is lowering their prices is because their brand has become saturated - and they are reaching out for new customers... I'm sure there are a million reasons - but when I go to McDonald's it's for the fatty chesseburger and fries - it's not for the coffee!

Comments

[Tony Chimento]

I have a friend who owns several McDonalds. And he feels that because they are offering free wifi and cheaper gourmet coffee, they will start to put a dent in Starbuck's sales. For me, I want free wifi if I am buyign a frap. And I want decent and available seating. Starbucks just isnt always that. But I am not sure McD's is that cozy little place either. So this should be interesting to see if the plan pans out. For my friend's sake, I hope so.