Michigan Accent » coffee

holiday preparations complete

bcp — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:00:51 +0000

Thank you, Trader Joe’s. I eagerly anticipate each and every cup.

seasonal appliances?

bcp — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 01:30:38 +0000

On a family outing to Home Depot this morning, we decided to check out some coffee makers. Our trusty coffee maker we’ve had since getting married (Mr. Coffee special at Target for $20) has served us well, but is showing signs that it may not be long for this world. After cranking out an estimated 50,000 pots, I’d say that’s $20 well spent.

Not seeing any coffee makers, we asked some helpful Home Depot employees where we might find them. They responded by saying they didn’t have any, because coffee makers are seasonal. Um. What? That’s like saying they don’t sell toilets right now because they’re out of season.

While we’re on the topic, does anyone have any recommendations for good coffee makers? We’re looking for something with a carafe and built in grinder. Suggestions?

liquid heaven

bcp — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 02:07:12 +0000

We received 6 lbs. of White Heather today. The whole house is full of its aroma. I’m anxious for my alarm to sound in the morning, knowing what’s in store.

the coffee business

bcp — Sun, 19 Nov 2006 20:15:41 +0000

Not wanting you to look down on Starbucks for their support of a premature Christmas, I thought I’d mention them in a more positive light today. I read an interesting article a couple weeks ago about how Starbucks is literally flooding certain areas with multiple stores … without the existing stores losing business. At first glance that seems to defy logic, but their explanations are pretty straightforward. They are simply trying to remove barriers for their customers, whether that be the convenience of not having to cross a street, or trying to provide shorter lines because there are 2 stores instead of 1. On average, Starbucks is opening 6 new stores per day.

I’ve always heard Starbucks treats their employees well, and that notion was furthered this week when I was told they can have all the free coffee they want while working (both 30 minutes before and after their shift, too), and 1 free pound of coffee per week– in addition to all the stuff today’s employees expect (401K, paid leave, health benefits, stock options, etc.). What’s unique is this all applies to their part-time employees, too. It would be interesting to read about the business of Starbucks and the strategies they’ve used over the years.