Starbucks: So Unbuzzy on S. State Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan

With six consequent quarters of declining same store sales, Starbucks, documents The Wall Street Journal, will be closing stores (laying off too). Will one of those shuttered be on S. State Street in University town Ann Arbor, Michigan? 

That location is smack in the middle of the central campus of the University of Michigan. On it are cool coffee shops with themes and to-die-for freshly made desserts. Amid that is Starbucks. In no way did I find it a stand-out.  

When I went inside, yes Starbucks had customers. No, it wasn't jam-packed like other buzzy beverage places on S. State. Also, there didn't seem to be any energy vibes. The taste of the coffee was not distinct. To me being in there was transactional. I purchased a coffee. Not an "experience."

Major university towns like Ann Arbor can be the platforms for sticky and emerging trends. If Starbucks remains out of that loop (as is Dunkin' on the street) it might not be able to sustain itself. See, another reality is the high pricing. Comments to the WSJ article cite that:

"Not sure Starbucks is the best example of signs of a cooling economy--their issues have been developing for years, starting with bad tasting coffee and ridiculous prices."

When a brand loses its way the odds are against its finding a path to something different. That's the current mindset in just about every aspect of business and life. For example, the Museum of Art in Toledo broadcasts the meme: Think Differently.

That's one of the first things I ask clients about their struggle to earn a living: How can you see this from other perspectives? What if Starbucks looked at itself as Not-Starbucks? 

Thrown off your game, maybe the first time since you started working? You made all the right moves and then the world moved in another direction.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, reskilling and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. There’s no risk.