In case you would like to know what it’s like working at Starbucks https://reddit.com/r/antiwork/comments/rn4sqv/in_case_you_would_like_to_know_what_its_like/…
To part of their clientele Starbucks sells a umc social experience that is validated in part by the price of the coffee. People sit there for an inordinate amount of time. People feel comfortable there. That probably helps to anchor the brand, which brings the cash-cow frappers.
one thing about starbucks I’ve noticed, people like the same insanely specific customized drinks as part of their daily routine and finding the location where they remember you and your order and get it right increases your satisfaction and therefore loyalty and spending
my view as a former barista (though not at starbucks): managers don't know what causes sales in their store to dip, so they do stuff like this to feel like they're in control, or at least that they tried. it's just an available lever to pull
When I lived in Japan, my local Starbucks was a study spot. Japanese apts are small, so people often study or read outside. I got to know the baristas v.well. On my first trip back two years after leaving, I made a point of visiting to see who was still around (sadly only one).