Gene Hoffman

Starbucks a Great Testing Ground for Grocery Sales

August 20, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
When Starbucks introduces a product into grocery stores it already knows whether the item can generate repeat purchases because it has first tested those items in its own stores. Does Starbucks have an advantage over other food and beverage brands when it comes to new product launches in grocery stores?      [more...]

If Starbucks hasn't already asked itself, "Are we a boutique niche retailer or a product breeder for supermarkets?" - it should. Whatever Starbucks does, within reason, is in season. But as Peter pointed out, boutique niches and supermarkets are two different selling channels. But if East is ever to met West, Starbucks has a good opportunity to accomplish that. Let's watch this carefully.