Defending the Tall Non-fat No-Whip Caramel Mocha

We've heard the scenario time and time again. Big nationwide chains move into small towns and destroy local business. Especially in Oklahoma, where the way of Wal-Mart rules the land, small town folk are particularly sensitive. It is no secret around town, that Starbucks will soon occupy one of the empty buildings in downtown Stillwater. My first reaction is to whine and complain about the "man" taking over this humble community and to fear for the future of my favorite local coffee shop (Aspen). Truthfully though, I will have a hard time supporting Aspen with the alternative available. I know that many consider Starbucks an evil empire, but since I have two of my very best friends employed there faithfully, I have recently been forced to consider what truly makes for a successful business plan.

First of all, Starbucks treats their employees extremely well. They receive healthcare plans even when only part-time, and the have retirement plans and stock available. Secondly, a key to Starbuck's success is their consistency. I don't know how many times I've walked into a small, privately owned coffee shop and placed an order for a tall non-fat hazelnut mocha and walked away with something like a latte or whole milk instead. I don't think employees at other coffee shops even know not to let a shot of espresso die. When I pay four dollars for a drink I like to at least believe that I'm getting something close to what I ordered.

I don't really know what the future holds for Aspen but I can certainly attest to one truth. If they don't figure out how to make a good, consistent drink soon, the consumer loyalty will quickly evaporate when the residents of Stillwater are given a better choice. I’ve been going to Aspen for 6 years now and even spent more time there than at my own home in college a couple of years. I’ll have a hard time going back though, when Starbucks is around. I wish Aspen luck. Anyways, who does that owner think he is? Walking around in his latest Patagonia jacket with matching tevas...I know so many guys that could kick his little rear on the slopes or up Joshua Tree or in a tri-athelon and they aren’t nearly so presumptuous. What a chump.

Overall, I think the moral of my story is that if I have written an entire blog about coffee, maybe I should lay off and just drink water for a while. That’s all.