Starbucked: Debunking Myths About The Coffee Giant

A recent firebombing at one of 157 Starbucks within 20 miles of downtown Portland leads this alternative news weekly to take a look at criticisms against the coffee giant. Ranging from global trade, to planning and community economic development issues, they offer a mixed verdict.

"Starbucks' homogeneity is the secret to its success; whereas local coffee shops can be inconsistent with their products, automation and training ensure that at Starbucks, you'll get the exact same latte every time, anywhere in the world. But homogenization is, by definition, a signal of the loss of diversity, uniqueness and charm, the long-range effects of which could be quite damaging."