Starbucks Employee? Customer?

YES!!!!! I would love to work for Starbucks! I think this company has great growth potential and they seem to really take care of their employees. As a professional, I think a part time position at Starbucks could offer great opportunities for extra cash, free coffee, and networking.

I am a Starbucks customer. I can't say that I am a regular as I generally make my coffee at home and enjoy n my commute to work. However, if I need a mid day pick-me-up then I always turn to Starbucks. Also, I like to try their seasonal drinks such as their pumpkin spice latte, etc.

Invest in the company? Yes! I foresee great success in both Starbucks and their market. They have laid a solid foundation for the future and continue to modify their strategy to meet the needs and demands of the consumer.

Most Interesting Fact...

The most interesting fact that I learned throughout my blogging experience with Starbucks is that the company takes great pride in their employees. In research for one of my blog posts I learned that when someone interviews for a position with the company they are often given taste testing opportunities, hand written thank notes, and even gift cards. Also, the company is a large advocate for health care. They provide some less then full time employees with health care benefits. That's an amazing benefit in today's job market!
Hats off to Starbucks!!! :)

Company Culture

Starbucks is known for coffees, creativity, and culture. Not only does this market leader have internal company culture, they also sell culture as part of their business model. The coffee giant has taken a single commodity like coffee and built an entire marketing empire around it. Stores now sell more than coffee, they sell an atmosphere. Whether you are a coffee drinker or not you have more than likely been to a Starbucks location for a "coffee date". The company does a great job of creating an environment that is very welcoming, yet relaxed and very metro, yet cozy. The culture of this company is obvious: innovative, chic, great tasting, and successful!

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/126954/the_starbucks_culture_pg2.html?cat=31

CEO Makes Mistake On Coffee Prices

According to a recent article in the Seattle Times, Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz recently gave a statement regarding the increase in coffee bean prices. Schultz denied any indication that there is a shortage in coffee beans and insisted that the price increases were due simply to speculation. However, analysts from the VM group corrected the coffee executive on his mistake. They insist that there is a major shortage in coffee beans versus demand and that prices will only continue to rise in the future. "VM Group said, adding that it would "prefer trusting the judgement of a coffee traded rather than a coffee retailer." Perhaps Mr. Schultz will do more thorough research before speaking on behalf of such topics in the future.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/coffeecity/2013555790_analysts_starbucks_ceo_wrong_a.html?syndication=rss

"Putting Humanity Back Into The Recruiting Experience"

I recently read an article about Starbucks' recruting processes and how their approach takes them above and beyond other corporations their size. When an applicant interviews for a position at Starbucks he or she is likely to enjoy a "tasting" of some classic company brews, be given a tour of the facilities, and even sent a complimentary gift card after the interview. Howard Schultz, company CEO, says he wants to treat employees as well as he treats his customers. The corporate exec encourages managers to sent hand written notes and repsonses to employees, as well as replying to applicants in a timely manner.

Also, Schultz insists on giving his employees that work 20 hours or more per week health benefits. Starbucks' emphasis on their employees will perhaps help retain talent and encourage employees to give 110% every day.

http://secretsofthejobhunt.blogspot.com/2006/04/starbucks-shows-softer-side-of_27.html

China/Merger

Starbucks does have operations in China, according to a news article on the company's website. Starbucks Coffee International first entered the Greater China market in 1998, opening its' first store in Taipei, Taiwan. The first actual Starbucks store was located in the mainland of China in Beijing in January of 1999. The company takes pride in connecting with the communities of China.

http://news.starbucks.com/about+starbucks/starbucks+coffee+international/greater+china/

Starbucks has made at least one acquistion in its' corporate history. According to an article found on the Oraganic Consumers Association website, the company acquired Seattle Coffee Company. The rival company was purchased for approximately $72 million in cash back in 2003. The merger created both value and competitive advantage for Starbucks in the Seattle, WA market.

http://www.organicconsumers.org/starbucks/starbucks_fair_trade.cfm

Vertical Integration/Outsourcing

Based on information available on  the company's website, Starbucks does not exercise vertical integration; however, the company does outsource some of its' responsibilites. Outsourcing is defined in the text as "farming out certain value chain activities to outside vendors."  According to an article found online, Starbucks recently outsourced duties to Unisys, an IT services firm. "The outsourcing deal was part of the firm's plan to implement their "expansion goals" of opening an estimate of 3,600-20,000 outlets worldwide. Unisys would be responsible for the IT infrastructure services international Starbucks outlets, support centers and manufacturing facilities." Outsourcing is yet another method to help contribute to the continued success of Starbucks.
http://www.outsourcing-weblog.com/50226711/starbucks_entering_the_outsourcing_scene.php
http://www.starbucks.com/