Background Information
National Coffee Day is celebrated every year on September 29 to show appreciation for the beverage and its widespread consumption across the globe. The day celebrates not only the vitality of coffee, but also the joys of tasting its many varieties. Starbucks, the well-known coffee chain, has been offering coffee for almost 50 years now. As a testament to its success in the field, Starbucks is the world’s biggest coffee chain and had 30,500 outlets in over 80 countries as of 2019.
The company has built its brand by recognizing a sense of community and offering unique experiences for its customers. While not officially affiliated with National Coffee Day, it does offer promotional incentives to draw in customers on the day. Starbucks enjoys a distinct presence in the specialty coffee industry and has impacted the way people drink and appreciate coffee.
Relevant Data
A survey of 1,000 US coffee drinkers revealed that interest in National Coffee Day is high and trending upwards. 65% of these respondents said they would participate in it, while an additional quarter said they planned to take part in any promotional activities that are held. 65% of Starbucks customers also said they would take advantage of National Coffee Day promotions. An additional 63% of respondents overall thought that National Coffee Day was a great way to honor coffee.
In addition, a report by the National Coffee Association showed that 64% of Americans drank coffee in 2019, with the average person consuming 3.2 cups a day. More than ever, people understand the importance of a good cup of coffee in the morning, and perceive it as a vital, essential part of their routine. In terms of numbers, Starbucks alone sold about 4 billion cups of coffee in 2019, further confirming their nationwide presence and dominance over the industry.
Experts Perspectives
Expert barista Randy Miller from Chicago speaks positively of the phenomenon of National Coffee Day and the roll Starbucks plays in it. “For me, National Coffee Day is about ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of coffee however they want it,” he says. “Starbucks is great in this regard, because they offer a wide variety of drinks and flavors to appeal to a wide range of coffee lovers.” He further adds that Starbucks’ commitment to promoting coffee culture is evident in how they provide coffee education, conducted by their baristas, and how they work to provide meaningful opportunities to coffee farmers around the world.
Another expert, restaurant consultant and business coach Tracey Speller notes that more than just offering promotions on National Coffee Day, Starbucks is engaging in wider reflection on the implications of coffee consumption. “Starbucks is working to reduce its environmental and social impact; for example, its commitment to sustainability, its conservation of resources, and its commitment to using environmentally friendly materials,” she explains. Their involvement in a global coffee initiative to stimulate sustainable economic growth serves as a testament to their dedication.
Insight and Analysis
While Starbucks is not officially associated with National Coffee Day, it does take advantage of the holiday to highlight its brand and offerings. This has been seen through the company’s various promotions and initiatives, from offering discounts on drinks and merchandise to events held by Starbucks and its affiliates. They’re also actively engaging in the conversation around sustainability, ethical farming and production, and how their operations impact the environment.
It is clear that Starbucks values the celebration of National Coffee Day, as well as its potential to benefit local, regional and global producers. While Starbucks is one of the most recognizable names in the coffee industry, this holiday is also a reminder that independent cafes, roasteries and home brewers have all had a hand in increasing public appreciation of the drink.
Taste and Variety
The sheer number of coffee purveyors in the US alone stand as a testament to the variety and different tastes of coffee that appeal to many. Specialty coffees, for example, are becoming increasingly popular, as reflected in their 43 percent share of the market. In such a changing and dynamic environment, Starbucks serves the taste of different regions. For example, the Pike Place, Kona and Jamaica Blue Mountain blends all reflect the unique taste of those regions.
Specialty drinks and other flavors catered to particular taste preferences further enhance the appeal of Starbucks and sets it apart from its competitors. As a result, Starbucks has become synonymous with convenience, as one is guaranteed to find something similar or familiar in any of their outlets worldwide.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
In addition to its various initiatives, Starbucks is also engaging in sustainability initiatives for the sake of environmental responsibility. They have a target of achieving 99 percent ethically sourced coffee by 2020 and have partnered with Conservation International to take on some of the most pressing environmental issues, like deforestation and water conservation.
Overall, Starbucks demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and ethical farming and production that is laudable when it comes to National Coffee Day. This commitment is apparent in the company’s involvement in initiatives and support of organizations, such as FairTrade Certified, Farmer Support and Resource Centers, and theGlobal Environment Facility.
Environmental Impact
Regardless of the potential benefits of coffee consumption, it’s important to consider the environmental implications as well. Production of coffee has been linked to deforestation, soil degradation, endangered species, polluted water and air, and other negative environmental impacts. Starbucks recognizes this, and has taken steps to minimize its environmental impact through efficient farming, sustainable packaging, and reducing its environmental footprint.
Additionally, the company supports various renewable energy initiatives and partners with organizations like the Sustainable Coffee Challenge to increase positive environmental impact in the industry. This commitment to sustainability not only seeks to minimize the environmental effects of its production, but also to support prolonged and fairer economic opportunities for farmers and communities that depend on coffee.
Coffee Culture
Overall, it is evident that Starbucks has had an immense impact on coffee culture over the years. Its wide offerings in terms of taste, variety, convenience and sustainability make it a leading coffee provider in the US and beyond. On National Coffee Day, Starbucks enhances its coffee culture through offering promotions and discounts on its products, as well as initiating initiatives to make coffee more sustainable. This effort to celebrate coffee and its vibrant culture only make it a leader in the field.
