Like us, you’ve probably pondered Starbucks’ complete and total domination by asking, rhetorically, “What’ll they serve next, beer and wine?” And the answer is yes—that’s exactly what they’ll serve next (in limited markets in the States). But while Starbucks is expanding into booze, Tim Hortons has been muscling into the Starbucks market with outlandishly sized coffees and espresso-based drinks. Sure, their espresso might “smell like aluminum” and their latte might taste “tinny,” but the move is a clear encroachment on Starbucks’ turf. Not to be outdone, Starbucks seems to be trying to woo some of Tim Hortons’ customers with its new blonde roast. In a promotional video, one of their roasters says the new offering is perfect “for the person who always wished that Starbucks had a roast like this.” In other words, writes Jessica Allen at Maclean’s, it’s perfect for the typical Tim Hortons customer. It’s a subtle play, but if Starbucks tries to sign Sidney Crosby or appeal to sleepy Canadian nationalism, we’ll know what’s going on. Read the entire story [Macleans] »
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With its new blonde roast, Starbucks ups the ante in its simmering coffee war with Tim Hortons
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Blonde roast? Really? Two can play at that game. I suggest that Timmies roll out its “Nice Ass Roast.”
January 26, 2012 at 12:11 pm | by JohnOLook, whatever Starbucks does, it will be with the consumer in mind. The C-O-N-S-U-M-E-R… you know, the guy that ‘pays the rent’? It’s a weird concept here in Canada…
Tim Horton’s is nothing more than a cafeteria, serving mediocre (at best!) cafeteria food, to a cafeteria loving public in the Land of Mediocrity. Canadian’s aren’t picky about what they eat and would rather pay less…. and get less. Hence, the success of Tim Horton’s.
January 31, 2012 at 9:00 am | by elpumaEspressos at Starbucks are tolerable only when drowned in milk, which is to be expected when your beans are burned to a crisp. That said, ordering an espresso drink at Tim’s sounds ludicrous. If everyone did it, lineups would stretch for miles and riots would ensue.
January 31, 2012 at 10:44 am | by François