Starbucks has been a prominent coffee company for the past forty years. They’ve been successful because of their ability to provide coffee to people in various forms and locations. Recently, allegations have been raised regarding Starbucks’ treatment of sending coffee to our soldiers. Reports have surfaced that Starbucks has refused to honor requests from the military to ship coffee to those overseas.
When looking at the facts and figures, it is clear that Starbucks is not likely to supply coffee to our soldiers based on the sheer number of requests they receive. According to the Department of Defense, there are over 1.3 million service members who are actively serving in the US military. It would be impossible for Starbucks to provide coffee for every soldier in a timely manner.
However, Starbucks does have a reputation for supporting veterans. The company has made countless donations to veteran organizations and actively participates in community outreach events. Starbucks also has special initiatives in place for veterans, such as the Veterans Transition Program, which helps military veterans find meaningful employment.
While Starbucks may not be sending any coffee to soldiers, there are still other companies that are happy to make contributions. Several companies, such as Folgers, Melitta, and Starbucks competitors, have been sending bags of coffee to deployed troops. Coffee companies also often provide discounts and special offers to show their respect and admiration for service members. This is a great way to support those who protect our freedom.
Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding Starbucks’ refusal to send coffee to our soldiers is still causing much contention in the public eye. Critics of Starbucks argue that the company could be doing more to show their appreciation for service members by sending coffee as a sign of solidarity. Meanwhile, supporters of Starbucks point out that the company is already doing enough and should be applauded for their commitment to helping veterans in other ways.
At the end of the day, Starbucks may not be the preferred coffee provider for soldiers, but that doesn’t mean the company isn’t doing its part. Starbucks is continuing to devote time and resources to veterans and active members of the military. This renders the debate about whether or not Starbucks should be sending coffee to our troops moot.
Economic Impact of Starbucks
Apart from its heart-warming initiatives and donations, Starbucks also has a major economic impact on the United States and the world. According to a study by Coffee Research Center, the coffee market in the United States alone is worth $48.3 billion and is expected to continue growing. Starbucks is the leading coffee brand in the United States, with a whopping 35% market share. Their coffee shops are located in almost every major city in the USA and they employ over 162,000 people which helps to boost economic activity. Their coffee beans are imported from farms in Central and South America and Africa, helping to sustain coffee production in those regions.
Health Benefits of Coffee
Whether made by Starbucks or any other company, it is a fact that coffee can be very beneficial for our health. There have been numerous studies conducted which suggest that regular consumption of coffee can reduce the risk of developing certain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Moreover, drinking coffee can also help in providing a boost of energy. This is due to the presence of a chemical compound in coffee called ‘caffeine’. It helps to increase alertness and concentration and can also provide a temporary mood lift.
However, it is important to be aware of the downsides of its consumption as well. Too much consumption of coffee can cause headaches, increased heart rate, panic, and restlessness. Even though recent studies have suggested health benefits, it’s still important to consume it in moderation.
Influence of Starbucks
As mentioned earlier, Starbucks has had a massive impact on the global coffee industry. Their innovations, for instance, the concept of ‘Frappuccino’, has been picked up by many other companies. Similarly, their espresso machines are widely used, both in their own shops and in other independent outlets. As a result, we can see more cafes and coffee shops all over the world due to Starbucks’ influence.
The presence of Starbucks in almost all major cities is also an indication of their influence. They have been able to tap into the minds of the younger generation, becoming a symbol of status for many people. They have also gained fame for their “bling” coffees, ranging from pretty diamond lattes to shiny gold cappuccinos. Certainly, this creative branding has helped them become a global household name.
Environmental Impact of Starbucks
Since its inception, Starbucks has been trying to make their production processes sustainable and environmentally friendly. They are making efforts to reduce plastic waste from their packaging by encouraging customers to bring their own reusable mugs and cups. Starbucks has set a goal to achieve 100% reusable and recyclable packaging by 2025. Moreover, the company has recently partnered with the World Wildlife Fund and Conservation International to protect the biodiversity of coffee-growing regions.
Despite their best efforts, some environmental issues still remain. Their production processes, such as roasting and shipping, consume considerable energy, causing carbon emissions. Additionally, their stores are not always located close to organic coffee farms, meaning that their beans must travel long distances before they reach consumers. As a result, the carbon footprint of the company is not insignificant.
Brewing Change Initiative
In an effort to expand their environmental protection initiatives, Starbucks recently launched the ‘Brewing Change Initiative’ which aims to reduce their impact on the environment. The initiative outlines a three-pronged approach, focusing on reducing plastic waste, improving water conservation, and protecting biodiversity. Starbucks is also launching a series of initiatives to help reduce their plastic waste, such as encouraging customers to bring their own mugs, and offering free coffee for customers who bring in reusable mugs.
In addition, Starbucks has pledged to reduce the use of water in their coffee making process by 25 percent by 2015. That implies that the company is switching to more sophisticated brewing systems which use less water. Lastly, Starbucks is also working to improve their energy efficiency by investing in new energy-saving technologies.
