Thoughts on Starbucks

those of you who know me well are aware of the fact that it isn't abnormal for me to spend four or five nights a week in the Hyde Park Starbucks here in Cincinnati. I would venture to guess though that many don't really know the reason "why." Now, undoubtedly, their coffee, at least in my opinion, is some of the best out there. It is always fresh and strong and there are often different types rather than their normal Pike's Place. They had a type called Verona in the spring that I found to be nearly addictive to both my caffeine habit as well as my taste buds. Yet, it's not really the coffee in

the long run that keeps me coming back. There are many more educated people in the world in the area of business so I will not claim to be a professional in this field. BUT... I will argue that there are, I believe, three main "components," if you will, that are absolutely necessary in this field. First, as mentioned above, is the product. Starbucks is obviously successful here. Second, for a business such as a coffee shop, an atmosphere that is conducive for conversation

and relaxation is required unless you want everyone to order "take out." Frankly, I like to sit down and enjoy myself instead of always being on the run (that must be my inner "European" taking over). Finally, and most importantly, is customer service, i.e. the baristas that construct my coffee

creations. I have found that every time I enter a Starbucks I am greeted with a good attitude, a smile and a willingness to speak to me as though I'm a "person" rather than a source of income for a corporation. In fact, I'm even known by name to some of the Starbucks employees. I didn't even have to tell them because they asked. (I wish I could claim that they knew my "regular" drink but since I change it up every other time I can't really get on their cases for that.)So here's to you Hyde Park Baristas. Thanks for taking the time to smile, to know me and support my addiction to your coffee!