VIA the truth we learn a lot
So Starbucks unveiled their new instant coffee this past week – VIA. Did you go for your free sample? Hurry; today is the last day.
Saturday morning I took their taste test. I chose VIA over the brewed. I asked the Barista if the brewed was their Pike Place blend which is just plain nasty! She replied yes.
I told her I remember a time when all Starbucks brewed mild and bold options all day long; now they seem to only brew bold – aka nasty Pike Place. I suggested that maybe it is a secret plot to get me to buy more expensive drinks – which by the way is working.
Her response was “I hope not.”
Sunday morning I walk into a different Starbucks. Same test. Same choice. I took it again. Again, I picked the instant as tasting better. I offered my same remark about the secret plot.
This time I got “I think you’re right. Pike Place is gross. I wish we would stop selling it.”
Monday morning; back to first Starbucks. I share my Sunday experience with the woman who served me on Saturday. To which she responds “Okay, if you promise not to tell on me I think Pike Place is gross too and maybe it is a plot.”
Well Starbucks, VIA has offered us the truth. Pike Place needs to go ——— before your customers go elsewhere.
But more importantly I love employees who don’t feel obligated to tow the company line; who are willing to share their true and honest thoughts. Because in the end………….that is how you’ll keep me as a customer.
Now what am I going to do with these two coupons for free cups of brewed nasty Pike Place?
