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April 14, 2008
Starbucks starts rolling out "splash sticks"; watch for more litter in your neighborhood
Splash sticks -- plastic plugs for sip holes with tops in the shape of the Starbucks siren -- should be at all Starbucks stores by the end of the week, according to this story. (Read the USA Today story) |||| The blogger at Visions and Revisions Blog writes: "All I have to say is WOW. Another excellent use of our natural resources. Instead of encouraging people to stop driving around with their goddam coffee, or (still more unthinkable) sitting in the cafe to drink it, we're creating a whole new line of useless plastic toys that we'll find littered in the street along with the already-too-prevalent cups, sleeves, and lids." (Image by ShawnW)
April 14, 2008 | Permalink
Comments
For all of you who say Starbucks is great and hasn't moved away from its roots and can never do anything wrong, etc, etc. Please start to pull your head out of the sand and realize this company is severely confused. Splash sticks? How about foreign countries? How about new markets to saturate? How about leaving your POS stores in the US alone and going to build some more in China? Seriously, the company is beyond being your neighborhood coffee shop. Get over it people and discourage these stupid gimmicks.
Was this a result of something posted on mystarbucksidea? Regardless, terrible idea. Wake up.
Posted by: earnestobserver | Apr 14, 2008 12:30:58 PM
They probably would have done just fine with stickers to cover the opening. Starbucks is just trying to be unique. Valiant effort, but I agree that it's too much plastic for so simple a job.
Posted by: Vintage | Apr 14, 2008 12:35:24 PM
Is there such a great need for these in the first place? I fail to see the point to these things at all. Why?
Posted by: Ken | Apr 14, 2008 12:47:37 PM
Another thing for people to complain about Starbucks. It seems has if they can never win, so what's the point anymore?
I get people always asking for something to cover the opening in their drinks. Splash sticks= problem solved.
BUT, I do think maybe we could make them out of something more...."green-related."
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 12:53:15 PM
Actually, Ken, there was a HUGE demand for this sort of thing.
Stickers DO NOT work.
Once I carried a drink down the 16th street mall here in Denver because a customer had forgotten it and I was delivering a cambro down to their charity event. I put a sticker over the opening, and still 1/3 of the drink ended up all over my hand even with carrying it very cafefully.
I can't belive people are making a huge negative fuss about the splash sticks!
Customers LOVE THEM. We only give them to people who have multiple drinks its not like we're plugging every single drink with them.
All I can say is overall, everything Howard and the company has done in the last few months IS WORKING. My store has never seen so many happy customers. In fact we broke a sales record last week, and we weren't trending that way the weeks before.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 1:03:53 PM
Thanks Starbucks, for the Splash Sticks! Is there a need for these things? Yes! Try buying a new car; driving across a cobblestone street; and spilling coffee all over the carpet. I don't mind paying a few bucks for a nice Latte, but a gummed horse-glue sticker seems unsanitary.
I received a Splash Stick and then re-used it the next day. It seems like I used less plastic than the self-closing lids. This is a great idea! Quit picking on Starbucks..... they are doing something to enhance my experience.
Posted by: Eileen Shannon | Apr 14, 2008 1:08:59 PM
whats wrong with those lids that have the flap that you can fold down and cover the whole, and clip back when you want to drink. Didn't Dunkin Donuts have those? they worked just fine, and you dind't have a big green plastic mermaid sticking out of your cup of coffee.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 1:09:12 PM
Eileen Shannon, try buying a travel mug!
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 1:10:55 PM
My only issue with these is the long stick. Won't coffee (and anything else in the cup) get dripped all over everything when the stick is removed? I'm sure customers will be complaining about that soon. The second version of these things need to have shorter sticks, or possibly none at all.
Posted by: STL Shift | Apr 14, 2008 1:12:36 PM
"they are doing something to enhance my experience."
Well, as long as you are happy Eileen, I guess thats all that matters.
How do you figure that a thick plastic splash stick uses less plastic then a flip up lid? If you re-use it everyday, yeah, maybe, but how many people are going to do that?
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 1:14:29 PM
Personally I don't think the splash sticks are the best option. Seems difficult to take it out while driving, then put it back in, all while steering. Seems like those lids that have the little piece that slides back and forth to open/close it would have been better, and would result in less waste. But at least there is something to cover the hole!
Posted by: pdx_barista | Apr 14, 2008 1:52:26 PM
Well, maybe we should just encourage the re-use. Anyone remember being a kid and getting those sword-shaped toothpicks through a sandwich? Those were the COOLEST. Not to mention those little umbrellas that come in tropical beverage - also very cool. So, let's calm the _ down.
Posted by: herebutloud | Apr 14, 2008 1:57:19 PM
I actually appericiate this because I'm sick of my coffee splashing all over the damn place, however yes the potential for more trash is inevitable.
I did notice I got less coffee today then I did before so I'm paying $4.00 for a splash stick and a venti cup with grande coffee? Damn Starbucks!!
Posted by: Charmarie | Apr 14, 2008 1:59:07 PM
You guys are hilarious. Customers have been asking for this for eternity. All of my regulars are ecstatic, and they reuse them. Stop complaining.
Posted by: Peaches | Apr 14, 2008 1:59:51 PM
They are only for a limited time and you're supposed to save them and reuse them. they do not splash everywhere when you take them out and I think they're an awesome idea.
Posted by: NJ_Barista | Apr 14, 2008 2:01:25 PM
Peaches- I agree! Why does everyone (including our good ol' webmaster) have to paint this in such a negative light? So much for his claim that it's an objective site. I mean, how long have customers been asking for these? So when SBUX finally fulfills this customer request, the webmaster casts it in a very negative light.
I, for one, found that my customers loved them.
Posted by: MusicGal | Apr 14, 2008 2:10:58 PM
We've had these in my store and several other Central Florida stores since about January.
When I go for my weekend morning workout and stop at Starbucks for coffee for myself and my fiance afterwards, putting a splash stick in my fiance's venti bold is a nice way to avoid getting hot coffee all over myself (and my car interior) on the 10-minute drive home. It's also nice for the mornings when I grab a coffee or tea for a coworker when getting my own Starbucks drink.
I realize that it's more waste, but they are certainly a convenience!
Posted by: Allison | Apr 14, 2008 2:25:40 PM
I am simply amazed. I work here at the SSC in Seattle and I find some of these comments humorous at best. When might I find you marching the street out in front of our building over "evil splash sticks"? I've got a front row seat for that! woohoo!
Posted by: saturn_04 | Apr 14, 2008 2:27:22 PM
@ 1:03
"All I can say is overall, everything Howard and the company has done in the last few months IS WORKING. "
Really? Because from what I can tell the company is still down ~8% since Howard came back. Also still down 45% from the previous year. Hmm...
I know it is hard to admit, given most of you are employees, but this company is confused and trying to be all things to all people. Splash sticks won't improve sales or customer traffic.
Posted by: earnestobserver | Apr 14, 2008 2:29:11 PM
WHOO HOO! lots more plastic! starbucks is so green- or at least they'll tell you that- just don't look at how much plastic they're using for a disposable stick...
Posted by: z | Apr 14, 2008 2:45:05 PM
Guys, this isn't new. I live in Japan right now, and they've had these at LEAST as long as I've been here (Last August). They don't use them that often - its more only if someone specifically asks for it
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 2:46:02 PM
If you're concerned about the splash stick...get one and SAVE it and reuse it...or don't get one!...The funny thing is I'd be willing to bet the people on here complaining doen't even use travel mugs!
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 2:59:47 PM
First and foremost, these are for customers who specifically ask for them only. Secondly, the only response I've gotten from my customers is "It's about time!"
Posted by: Mike | Apr 14, 2008 3:20:47 PM
I have had one in my car for the past 2 weeks and I re-use it every morning in my coffee! I just can't seem to find a cute Venti size travel mug (although I am looking), so I have to use a paper one, and this saves my car from being a mess during my 30 minute commute in stop and go traffic. I used to just stuff the hole with 4 or 5 stir sticks, a trick i learned when i was a barista, so this is actually saving resources... at least for me.
And for those of you who don't like the long stick, just snap it off. The plug part still fits in the hole just fine, and prevents leaking all the same.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 3:25:54 PM
I use a travel mug. I figure useing a travel mug is the VERY least I can do. Everyone seems so damn concened about the enviorment, but when it comes right down to it, does very little to help it. Useing a travel mug is the one of the easiest ways we all can do something. Think about someone that goes to starbucks every morning on thier way to work, and gets one cup of coffee, 5 times a week. Now, if they were to use a travel mug?
I think Starbucks should be pushing travel mugs, rather then pushing more plastic on use.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 3:31:39 PM
You guys are hilarious. Customers have been asking for this for eternity. All of my regulars are ecstatic, and they reuse them. Stop complaining.
Posted by: Peaches | Apr 14, 2008 1:59:51 PM
I seriously doubt that all of your customers will reuse them.
This company is so ridiculous. I mean, seriously. More profit gone off the balance sheet and more trash in the streets.
I can't possibly imagine a demand for this? And if there is any, it has to be extremely minimal.
Such a waste.
Starbucks cannot in good conscience claim to be "green." Wow. Simply, wow.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 3:31:55 PM
The green siren is not green despite Howard's protestations to the opposite. Another bs solution. Why not small wood or bamboo - both are renewable, albeit, maybe not the best solution - but far better than plastic.
jim
Posted by: Jim Lane | Apr 14, 2008 3:35:46 PM
Dito Mike! :)
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 3:42:35 PM
Let's face it: those sticks will be thrown away 99.9% of the time. That's a problem, both from an expense standpoint plus from a green standpoint.
OK, the answer is simple:
make a splash stick that goes into a tiny holder that's clipped on your key ring. Just carry it around with you.
You use the stick as needed, then when you're finished you lick it off and clip it back into its little holder.
Get your splash stick AND be green at the same time.
(and if they're smart, the lids will have holes shaped such that the splash stick will work with a SB lid but not a competitor's lid)
Posted by: Elmo | Apr 14, 2008 3:44:47 PM
doesn't coffee bean already have a plug thing like this? No logo or anything, but its not like starbucks just created a new waste item that no other place has.
Posted by: Zipy | Apr 14, 2008 4:00:56 PM
Quite frankly (hate shields are active -- I'm ready) I don't care about conserving resources.
There. I said it. I do not care. If it takes an additional tree per morning, but it prevents me from spilling on my shoes, I'm happy.
Obviously, I'm exaggerating. If I knew that a product was actually taking a
tree per morning, I would not use it.
But, in general, I've combined the fact that I am a rational utility maximizing individual with a relatively short time horizon with the fact that I have a strong belief in the ultimate ability of human ingenuity and intelligence and technology to solve whatever problem might present. The result: I am more than happy to see the baby beaver killed, the forest consumed, or the third subspecies of Azores Pelican go extinct that I may drive a faster car, have a lighter computer, and, yes, have a disposable spill guard on my drink.
Take note: I am not being sarcastic. I'm being serious. And, whether they'll admit it or not (many will not in the current prevailing pc climate) there are many many many people who think exactly like me.
So ... get that roll out rolling Starbucks!
Posted by: Monkey Moose | Apr 14, 2008 4:03:43 PM
Customers amaze me, complain if you spill your drink, then complain if we try to do something about it. Are any of you ever happy??????
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 4:09:46 PM
When did so many of you complete the transition into cynical pessimists????
Christ, I pray I never work with any of you, that attitude is despicable.
Starbucks can never do ANYTHING right for some of you, so why are you here? Just bitch and bitch and bitch.
Quit your jobs already.
Posted by: atownsbuxrules | Apr 14, 2008 4:11:48 PM
You can bet Starbucks will take out another full page ad in major papers claiming that it's a green company -- just as it introduces more plastic litter to the world.
Posted by: Truly Green | Apr 14, 2008 4:15:46 PM
Monkey Moose, I'm glad you have such a great life. Congrats. Your attitude is completly selfish. Do you have kids? For thier sakes, I hope not.
You should try, just for a day, to be a little less selfish, and a little more responsible. I assume you are the type of person that doesn't care how many people you scare or endager, you are going to drive as fast as you want, and listen to your music as loud as you want, becuse, well, its what you want to do.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 4:38:04 PM
the problem is these little plastic pre-garbage bits aren't made of trees, they're made of petroleum products, which we are currently losing lives in iraq over. so before you say "I don't care what it costs", realize that our dependence on foreign oil (and labor for that matter- 10-1 odds these things are made in china, who will own america soon) will cost you much more than the convenience of clean shoes soon.
Posted by: z | Apr 14, 2008 4:55:07 PM
Anonymous, Monkey Moose here:
As is usual in the world of internet blogs, you grabbed a piece of my comment that you found most emotively 'disturbing' and then responded.
"Look! This guy doesn't care about people! About the world!"
If you read everything I wrote, you'd realize that I simply have an optimistic (and, in my opinion, not unrealistic) view on the ability of mankind to craft solutions to our problems.
I can pretty much guarantee you: the solution to problems of global warming, pollution, trash, etc. when it comes, is NOT going to be some sort of 'we gained momentum, and convninced enough people to recycle, and, we all held hands and sang kumbya'.
It's going to come from technological-scientific breakthroughs. It's going to happen when it becomes economically efficient for it to happen (which I believe will be in this century). And the generation that experiences it - which, depending on how young or old you are, may very well be our/your generation - is going to look back with a mixture of amusement and befuddlement at the crazy people in 2008 who thought that they'd 'make a difference' with silly sh&^ like carping about plastic spill stoppers.
Yes, I know: it's not romantic to say this. It's not pretty. It doesn't appeal to a sense of community or 'helping hand' etc. But that's the reality. And, in the final analysis, it's actually not a bad reality: because we're going to take care of this AND I'll have my damn spill stopper ;)
Monkey Moose
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 4:59:38 PM
(This is not to say that I still wouldn't be happy to see the baby beaver killed ... while sipping my Americano)
... am I kidding ...
probably not
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 5:01:42 PM
The negativity on this site is deplorable. Customers have been asking for and reusing the splash sticks for some time now. They love them.
I'm really tired of all of the Starbucks bashing.
Get over it. This Starbucks terrorism is unnecessary. If you really want to spew your venom, aim it toward doing something productive like, hmmm... the election, world hunger/peace, etc...
Posted by: Geez | Apr 14, 2008 5:16:48 PM
I heard some stores will be closing in NJ/New york city area.... I want to try the last starbucks coffee before its closing, Does anyone know which stores will be closing???
Posted by: Tiff33 | Apr 14, 2008 5:30:21 PM
GET OVER IT.
Posted by: eeks. | Apr 14, 2008 5:53:24 PM
Hey naysayers: yappity-yap-yap. Where were you guys 5-10 years ago when SBux was rocking the world - that's right, standing right there sucking up the juice. Now it ain't cool to be SBux friendly so off on that tangent you go. Get a freaking life!
Posted by: Rob | Apr 14, 2008 6:02:48 PM
I love the stir sticks!
At my Starbucks the baristas only give them out to those who ask for them or some one getting multiple drip coffees to go.
And yes I reuse them, I have only two after about 10+ visits. one in my purse and one in my car. It's not hard at all to wash them and I'm sure they would act just fine as a stirrer too, so you can rest easier that a customer probably isn't using anything more than they would have anyway.
The fact that they keep my car and my clothes drip free is a wonderful thing!
Posted by: Hayley | Apr 14, 2008 6:30:05 PM
I don't think people are understanding that we are not putting these in every single drink! They are given out by request, and every time I give one out, I let the customer know that they are reusable. The customers who have seen the splash sticks love them and I've already seen a couple of them reuse the sticks. I don't see that big of environmental impact when you look at it in perspective. Think of all the plastic bottles, grocery bags, and other forms of packaging out there that gets tossed in the garbage everyday. The splash sticks on the other hand are absolutely tiny and we don't go through that many. The few who do ask for them love them. IF you want to be green, don't ask for a splash stick. Better yet, bring in your own mug and save a few cents.
Posted by: sfbuxmgr | Apr 14, 2008 6:40:32 PM
hm. you all kind of make me giggle. like first ever french press of freshly roasted Kona coffee giggle.
anyway. this is kind of ludicrous because the people who whine about how Starbucks is eco-unfriendly and yet still shop there are the same people who would whine and call Starbucks nazis if they tried to force every customer to be eco-friendly.
*tosses two pennies on table**
Posted by: indie_mudslinger | Apr 14, 2008 7:13:08 PM
"whats wrong with those lids that have the flap that you can fold down and cover the whole, and clip back when you want to drink. Didn't Dunkin Donuts have those? they worked just fine, and you didn't have a big green plastic mermaid sticking out of your cup of coffee."
My store has these flats lids and guess what whenever it is placed on a cup a customer wants the other kind, even if they are traveling. do not blame starbucks they are only doing what you people wanted them to do
Posted by: HCO | Apr 14, 2008 7:14:30 PM
I agree with Monkey Moose. I don't go so far as to say "I am more than happy to see the baby beaver killed, the forest consumed, or the third subspecies of Azores Pelican go extinct that I may drive a faster car, have a lighter computer, and, yes, have a disposable spill guard on my drink" but all in all, as long as it doesn't affect me or affect anything remotely close to me I Don't Care. We'll either destroy ourselves and go extinct or the scientists will fix it. There is not going to be a rising up of all of humanity in 'going green.'
And we've been using those stir sticks for months. I think we give out 1 a day on average? Not a huge deal.
Posted by: Allie | Apr 14, 2008 7:28:30 PM
So, Dunkin Donuts has those little plastic flaps that cover the hole on lids? Do they have ceramic mugs or other glassware that doesn't use trees or plastic like Starbucks has? I haven't been to Dunkin since I was 9, so I don't honestly know the answer to this question. I've been a barista for only 2 months, so maybe I haven't learned to be as jaded as a lot of others on this website, but I don't at all see why there is such angst against the company. In the end, the duty of Schultz and others is not to save the environment, cure cancer, or end world hunger, it is to MAKE MONEY. Quit acting like he and others are rogue philanthropists.
Posted by: Josefina | Apr 14, 2008 7:46:25 PM
1) It's not starbucks' fault that people litter, we have 8 visible garbage cans in our small store both inside and outside as well as garbage cans outside our strip mall all along the walkway.
2) For those complaining that it'll be hard to plug/unplug while driving... consider not eating/drinking while driving... studies have shown it's almost as limiting as being impaired and driving.
Posted by: Affogoto | Apr 14, 2008 7:46:39 PM
"Really? Because from what I can tell the company is still down ~8% since Howard came back. Also still down 45% from the previous year. Hmm..."
That is the stock price, I was referring to current sales numbers and customer counts. The things we are rolling out right now won't impact stock price untill at least the end of the quarter when earnings are reported.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 7:47:25 PM
I've never seen splash sticks or stickers at any stores in Michigan, but I did love the splash sticks in Japan (even though I really had no use for them). To the anonymous poster at 2:46:02 PM, they had them as far back as January '06 for sure, and put one in my drink if I was taking it out of the store, period (just as other stores like Vie de France would automatically use a sticker).
Posted by: Hirayuki | Apr 14, 2008 8:02:12 PM
In the end, the duty of Schultz and others is not to save the environment, cure cancer, or end world hunger, it is to MAKE MONEY. Quit acting like he and others are rogue philanthropists.
Posted by: Josefina | Apr 14, 2008 7:46:25 PM
And how an initiative like plastic drink plugs generating additional revenue?
There won't be any new customer that comes in because of these things... there won't be any additional sales that were attracted because of these things...
It's pure waste. The balance sheet will only show a smaller profit number next year than the last.
As for the eco-friendly side of this: it's pretty deplorable. Whoever said that these guys are made from petroleum had it right. With oil at $110 a barrel, and the fact you factor in the costs for creation, supply and transport for these little sticks alone, it's sad to think that the air is getting dirtier and the landfills filling up even more because of little plastic drink stoppers.
And, come on people: no one will reuse these things. Maybe the folks who reuse their paper cup once for a refill, but that's about it.
Ironic in that whoever mentioned that SBUX will indeed post another full page ad in the Sunday NYT announcing how "green" they are... Let's waste paper talking about how "green" we are...
Either way, truly not the drastic, positive changes we were promised. We'll see where this goes, but I can't imagine it's anywhere good.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 8:18:41 PM
To anon 4/14 8:18:41
The splash sticks make some customers happy. Just like a good drink, great service, a clean store, nice music... all of these (splash sticks included) contribute to the customer experience. Create a good customer experience, and sales will increase due to repeat business. Sounds like revenue to me.
Posted by: sfbuxmgr | Apr 14, 2008 8:32:50 PM
They are green, recyclable and they work. Get a life.
Posted by: Seattle Stix Chick | Apr 14, 2008 8:55:08 PM
Monkey Moose
I *heart* you!!!
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 9:00:51 PM
oh no, more plastic waste!!!
LIFES OVER!!
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 9:10:33 PM
To all of you who complain about the plug:
Yes, it is convenient to some customers, and yes, if it makes a few customers happy they will be starting their days happier, treat you friendlier, treat their Barista friendlier, be nicer to their wifes, kids and dogs and whoever else. All just because of a little splash stick who prevented a coffee stain on your clothes in the morning. Shouldn't that be worth it?
And if it helps to earn two bucks more at the end of the year it was even good for business.
And before you complain about this little splash stick, please make sure you're NOT driving a car, or if you have to, make no short trips with it, skip the weekend trip to the cottage etc, use reusable, preferably already recycled bags only, ALL the time, have all your lightbulbs changed to energy saving ones and use ceramic mugs only. And lastly, please do not use your computer too much, because it needs a lot of energy. This way you could save some energy, the world, and us from listening to your whining.
Please make sure you're not coming across as a hypocrite.
I'm certainly not happy with everything Starbucks does right now, but complaining about a tiny little plug?
Give me a break, there are more serious problems out there.
Posted by: Me | Apr 14, 2008 9:10:52 PM
P.S. Monkey Moose, you got it right! Even if you presented it a little drastic.
Posted by: Me | Apr 14, 2008 9:12:17 PM
I would like to think all pros and cons were considered for this stick idea, with green being top of mind. Could it have been a bent wooden swizel stick? Why can't Starbucks just do something and then shut TFU. Instead it seems they have to look around for an ATTA BOY! So to get attention for the stick Schultz blasts a transformation memo to partners and then puts it on the company's website. I am curious is this stuff from Schultz or do you think his Pr department tell him to do it. Very sleazy; but then, very fast food.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 9:17:46 PM
Note to Earnest Observer...
Every company is going through troubles, not just Starbucks.. they are even closing a GAP in our mall. Something I had never seen before!
Really with the economy the way it is, and no one wanting the spend anything, how could you really expect a splash stick to double their stock?
Posted by: LilBarista | Apr 14, 2008 9:22:02 PM
I hear the idea of the plug was from SB's website contributor. Is this true, I hope the the contributor gets more than PPR lifetime refill.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 9:25:25 PM
I have been suggesting this for years. I have two - one in my car and one in my favorite winter coat, kind of like Hayley said above. They are not from Starbuck's, I've had them for many years. So yes, they are reusable. And it's a lifesaver when you're driving or picking up an additional drink for someone else. I asked at a couple of Starbuck's and they said they've only given out about a dozen or so. For someone that drives a lot, it is probably doing more good by preventing spills (creating more waste from clean-ups), possible accidents, etc.
Posted by: CoffeeMan | Apr 14, 2008 10:07:00 PM
I saw this suggestion on the Starbuck's website, and it said something like "under review," so it perhaps is something that became a necessity after the number of comments that were logged in favor of this item. It's nothing new. I've seen them at a couple of independent cafes, so probably Starbuck's had been considering the pros and cons of this for sometime. If it prevents one accident, it's worth it.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 10:17:58 PM
TIFF33, I have heard the same about store closings in New York/New Jersey area. I would also like to have one last cup at these spots before they close! I have fond memories at all but one of them....and that one should close! If I hear of anything I will post here, and hopefully you will do the same. And I agree with the comment about accidents - if the little "swisher stick" saves one life, it's worth it.
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 10:24:32 PM
..."PPR lifetime refill"...
so funny... LOL
Posted by: StLouieDrip | Apr 14, 2008 10:43:47 PM
Way to go green!
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 11:22:30 PM
idea=excellant, esp for multiple drinks
execution of said idea=could be "greener"?
Posted by: itsnotamermaid | Apr 14, 2008 11:24:08 PM
Here is your Latte Mr. Jones oh and don't forget your splash stick you retard! What's next! How about a slap stick for free drink offenders!
Posted by: | Apr 14, 2008 11:26:58 PM
I wish I had a stupid stick to hit people up-side the head with. Great a green plastic toy for the adult version of a sippy-cup! And yet a tasty one!
Posted by: Bladerunner | Apr 15, 2008 12:07:11 AM
my DM informed us that they aren't to be in sight... simply available upon request... in an attempt to be greener.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 12:13:22 AM
You and your DM need to check your siren's eye, they are to be placed on the condiment stand, next to the napkins, in a clear cube.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 1:07:59 AM
Well I hope all you Greenies are doing something to neutralize all that carbon consumption from sitting on your computers and bitching about trivialities ad nauseam.
Go put that passion to work.
I do.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 1:25:24 AM
to anon 4/15 1:07:59
You should take your own advice and check the siren's eye yourself and check your facts. They are NOT to be at the condiment bar, or within customer reach.
Posted by: sfbuxmgr | Apr 15, 2008 3:59:41 AM
To anon 4/14 8:18:41
The splash sticks make some customers happy. Just like a good drink, great service, a clean store, nice music... all of these (splash sticks included) contribute to the customer experience. Create a good customer experience, and sales will increase due to repeat business. Sounds like revenue to me.
Posted by: sfbuxmgr | Apr 14, 2008 8:32:50 PM
Really? Hasn't this been SBUX's mission all along? Good customer experience begets better sales?
Well, if it has and this is just another thing to add to that "great customer service" foundation, then these wasteful little plastic plugs will not further generate revenue.
When the foundation of something is weak, the entire structure is weak. Starbucks needs to focus on CUSTOMER SERVICE first and then do all the cute little add-ins later.
Simply plopping another ton of plastic into the stores that generates nothing cash-wise and only eats money in operational expenses is poor decision making.
Plus, once again, they're such a waste of plastic. Bad for the environment.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 6:11:13 AM
I actually heard about this concept here a long time ago. A product made by Stix-to-go. I ordered them with my own money and started using them in our store about two years ago.
Customers love them and do keep them and re-use them. And they miss them if we run out. Maybe not everyone, but enough to warrent having them.
I even sent in a Mission Review to corp, at my DM's request and never heard back :^(.
Two stores later. People still love them. They do work well!
Please do not keep them on the condiment bar. We keep some by the coffee urns (in a tall cold cup)and some at the bar (in a venti cold cup with dome lid), underneath the hand off plane.
As our partners say, we know where our hands have been.
Posted by: Perky ASM | Apr 15, 2008 6:12:17 AM
Yes, blame Starbucks for mankind's wasteful habits. Clean up your own trash, people.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 6:53:15 AM
Um, this splash stick idea was definitely needed. Lids with clips don't work to keep coffee from spilling all over, and stickers tend to not stick when wet, as they would be with splashing coffee, but they DO stick to trashcans, the floor, etc, making them MUCH more difficult to clean up than a plastic stick.
I do really like Elmo's idea, though, about a reusable one that clips to a key chain! If Starbucks wanted to be really smart about it, they could even make it out of recycled plastic and play up that aspect, like they do with the recycled cardboard sleeves.
Or maybe we can all get travel mugs, as others have suggested. Solves pretty much all the problems people have with the "green" aspect and the spillage problem.
Posted by: KT | Apr 15, 2008 7:19:13 AM
i have a starbucks travel mug and would prefer to use that (yes i've had my mocha splash & spill in my car before, and no, i don't drive on cobblestone roads)... however, only about half the time can i get a properly prepared drink in my travel mug. i've basically stopped using it at starbucks. it is their own mug -- why the heck can't the baristas figure out if it is a tall, grande, or venti, especially when i order and state to the cashier that it is a tall? that is my biggest gripe w/ starbucks right now. if i order w/o the travel mug, my mocha is just fine. apparently they can tell the sizes of the paper cups just fine.
Posted by: chelny | Apr 15, 2008 7:22:19 AM
To the "customers/guests/patrons" who use this site to complain about SBUX...if the company is that bad in your view, stop patronizing it! That's the most effective step one can take to attempt to be bring down the "Evil Green Apron Empire."
To the investors who use this site to bemoan their loss of "paper value" in the stock, SELL! Cut your losses and SELL. Obviously, you didn't buy at or near the IPO or you boarded the "profit train" late and didn't make any money on the stock. While you're at it, though, you might want to look at changing brokers, too, as any good one would have not advised SBUX as a "buy" over the past two years. A simple look at the annual and quarterly reports would have told them, and you, that SBUX wasn't the best buy over that time.
To the baristas, ASMs, SMs, DMs, etc. with SBUX who want to use this site to point out the facts about your company or discuss issues concerning/facing the company, continue to do so but know you will always have to deal with the nay-sayers who only wish to focus on the negative about SBUX.
To the aforementioned nay-sayers, chronic complainers, etc. (and you know who you are)...GET A LIFE! All of you are amusing. From people who can't get off their duffs to ask to have the music turned down as it seems too loud for their taste to those who take ONE non-green instance to extrapolate to a point that ANY claim by SBUX to be "green" is BS, all of you are comprised of that curious group of people who believe the world revolves around them.
SBUX is not, by any stretch of the imagination, a perfect company; however, what has been done with its adherence to C.A.F.E. practices to putting into the market place the first food service cup that is made of 10% recycled materials, the company has shown a commitment to attempting to be "green" while also doing what every company is in existence to do...MAKE A PROFIT. As the Guiding Principles of the company point out, making a profit is vital to the continued existence of the company. Simple economics and business practices, really.
The Splash Sticks are just another response to a customer-stated "need." Are they the most green solution? Probably not. But, I would venture to say they are the most cost-effective solution to the problem available at this time, so from a company perspective, it is the one that should be used unless/until a better one comes along.
But, of course, the addition of these green sticks into the world's landfills will be the SOLE cause of the polar ice caps melting; they are SOLELY responsible for the perception that the country is in a "recession" and they will be the SOLE cause of the sun eventually becoming a red star! Who knew! The SBUX nay-sayers are right...SBUX is responsible for all that is wrong with the world! (Tongue firmly planted in cheek here for those unaccustomed to sarcasm. Again, YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE!)
Posted by: Jeff | Apr 15, 2008 7:26:44 AM
jeff-RIGHT ON !!give me a high five!!the best post i have ever read!!as a long time partner, i will not give in to our critics. i believe in howies passion for this company. this company has something to offer that nobody else can give.i'm not looking at what starbucks has done wrong, i'm looking at what starbucks has done right... onward howie, you all have a spoodle of day, spoodles............STARBUCKS YOU ARE AWSOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: smokey | Apr 15, 2008 7:45:06 AM
What's next...the Starbucks parasol? More silly ideas/gimmicks. Someone posted the smart solution further up--just get the lids that have the sliding door thing on them.
Posted by: adam | Apr 15, 2008 7:46:43 AM
Yay!! for reusable travel mugs! I bought mine years ago, long before I worked for Sbux because I have a car with no cupholders. My mug is an older style that is stainless steel with a really wide base and rubber on the bottom. It is great and works well in my car, keep any drink (Starbucks or homemade) hot for hours and doesn't create any waste. I recommend a stainless steel thermal mug to anyone who frequents any coffee shop!!! Try doing your own part to save the enviroment and maybe you will not be so angry about stir sticks.
Posted by: Rapunzel | Apr 15, 2008 7:50:11 AM
The Stix to Go splash stick is one of the greatest inventions of last half-century, right up there with the little table that keeps your cheese off the inside of the pizza box.
There are a lot of wasteful plastic contraptions out there, but splash sticks aren't one of them. They're also very reusable, you can drill a hole into one and attached it to a key ring and use it for weeks before it breaks.
Posted by: Q | Apr 15, 2008 8:10:22 AM
TO ADAM, believe it or not, i do have a BROWN STARUCKS UMBRELLA, or parosal as you call it!!! i bought it probably 8 or 9 years ago. my umbrella is not a silly idea/gimmick, quite useful acutually. i have been a partner for a long, long, long, time so i have purchased alot of starbucks goodies..... people , lighten-up, remember a smile is a million-dollar asset, if you're not using it, your're doing yourself a disservice. PARTNERS enrich someone's experience today in your store, i promise you'll feel good about it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! have a totally spoodle of a day,i love spoodling...
Posted by: SMOKEY | Apr 15, 2008 9:55:14 AM
I MEANT STARBUCKS NOT STARUCKS, ha ha, i haven't had my coffe yet today..he he he he........................
Posted by: smokey | Apr 15, 2008 9:56:51 AM
Wow wonder if I could still have my job if customers did not need a plug which is more important? Still no work since Feb. 21st and not enough income for insurance. What is important to anyone these days.
Posted by: Hope | Apr 15, 2008 10:36:11 AM
Q,
Oh my goodness. That analogy of the little table that keeps the cheese off the top of the box had me stitches! That is a great analogy.
And think about it. You get a little plastic table in every pizza delivered to you, but the splash stick is really used upon request only.
I must confess that I liked the original test version of the splash stick better.
But if you REALLY want to do something for the evironment, start using a travel tumbler! And your coffee will taste better too!
Posted by: Melody | Apr 15, 2008 10:42:46 AM
Oh, so this is the "we all all on board, no matter the idiocy, pc (in Starbucks' terms) blog?" Say what?
If you do not like the negative stuff being written, then walk your scrawny butt out the door.
As for not giving in to the critics, what created the sticks? Criticism of a problem area. Critics cut both ways.
So, you had best listen and heed the critics here and elsewhere.
jim
Posted by: Jim Lane | Apr 15, 2008 1:01:12 PM
attention jim. the sticks were created because of costomers REQUESTS not criticism. starbucks LISTENS to their customers. why do you think there have been so many positive changes lately? of course starbucks probably won't be able to please everyone that walks thru the door, but as a partner all i can do is try to enrich the starbucks experience. with starbucks doing the right thing with the right motives, there's no limit as to where starbucks will go. i say - onward howie - pike place roast is yummy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: smokey | Apr 15, 2008 1:53:23 PM
I worked the bar today for 4 hours and used 5 splash sticks. At this rate, when I retire, I will have used a bucket full.
Posted by: spence | Apr 15, 2008 2:04:59 PM
I posted about the weird little sticks back in December or so on an open thread. We've had them since then in our store in Florida.
Naysayers, have no fear. I'm sure they'll be gone soon. Why? I'll repeat what I said about them last December:
If anyone here is a child of the seventies, they'll remember Mickey D's used to have these cute little plastic stir sticks with a paddle/spoon to stir your coffee with. Anti-drug campaigns brought down the stirrer due to it's vast use as paraphanalia. . people were using them as coke spoons.
Splash sticks look just like these minus two inches in length. Instead of the siren, you had the arches.
Pretty soon some anti-drug agenda will rave on about the "coke spoons" that SBUX is now offering, and we won't see them anymore.
If you love 'em, stash some.
If you hate 'em, congrats and don't come whining here when your customers are ticked we don't have them anymore.
Posted by: Des | Apr 15, 2008 2:14:38 PM
I own a Starbucks thermos, but, believe it or not, don't carry it with me all the time; sometimes I actually want a cup of coffee during a spontaneous moment. And I have been asking for flat lids or tape over that supid Starbucks lid for years, because they ALWAYS leak/spill. So these sticks are just dandy by me.
I also think Des is correct; some zealot idiots (by which I do NOT mean environmentalists, let me be clear) will start whinging about them as multi-purpose evil-doing implements. In the meantime, thanks, Starbucks, for preventing coffee from spilling on my clothes when I walk down the street.
Posted by: Ken | Apr 15, 2008 2:36:25 PM
You can also buy your coke spoons (er, splash stix) right from the source. Retail price, 120 in rainbow colors for only $19.95. Granted, you probably can't buy the ones with the siren on them, but still...
www.stixtogo.com
I just hope sbux doesn't decide to buy the company that makes splash stix. (Clover anyone?)
Posted by: StLouieDrip | Apr 15, 2008 3:10:59 PM
"Oh, so this is the "we all all on board, no matter the idiocy, pc (in Starbucks' terms) blog?" Say what?
If you do not like the negative stuff being written, then walk your scrawny butt out the door.
As for not giving in to the critics, what created the sticks? Criticism of a problem area. Critics cut both ways.
So, you had best listen and heed the critics here and elsewhere.
jim"
This is such a funny, yet predictable post, from a funny, yet predictable person. Yet again, we see someone who wishes to complain for the sole sake of being a complainer. The issue is the inability to stay consistent in one's complaint/message.
The first post on this subject by the signee berated SBUX for not being "green" and the labeling of the company's contention that it is, to some extent, green as "bs." Now, it his new posit that the stir sticks are the result of "criticism of a problem area." Preferring to address it from a positive, vice negative, point of view I would label it, as someone else did, as a response to customer desires and requests.
Often I've asked for stickers to be put over the holes in the lids of hot beverages so I could transport them to work without having spills run down the sides of the cups and into the drink carrier. These were effective to a point, yet not a total solution. Someone else suggested a different lid; however, I've had leaks occur on those lids, also. The most responsible and "green" suggestion is the use of a travel mug which, BY THE WAY, SBUX gives a $.10 discount to the guest for using...hmm, could that be a "green" idea? LOL Certainly not in some people's views as it would require saying/writing something positive about SBUX!
As for the "walk your scrawny butt out the door" comment, what a wonderful solution for you the next time you feel the music volume is too loud for your taste (as noted in a different thread)! Bravo and a problem solved for both you and, I'm sure, the baristas who have to endure your incessant whining and self-centered, self-important attitude! Cheers!
Posted by: Jeff | Apr 15, 2008 3:15:16 PM
BY THE WAY, SBUX gives a $.10 discount to the guest for using...hmm,
You know, when the barista has been properly trained to A) treat the customer like a guest and B) actually know how to apply the discount.
More times than not I have to "remind" the barista for my discount.
So, while this might be a "green" initiative SBUX has employed, it just shows another problem they have: Poor customer service and even poorer training.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 4:28:07 PM
So I guess I can assume all of the people complaining about the negative effect on the environment from the splash sticks are using solar energy to power your computer? And how does your phone company or cable supplier get their energy so that you can get online? And I am SURE that your computer itself is 100% recycled right?
It is easy to condemn others if you need to find something negative, but unless you are completely innocent you really have no basis to complain.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 5:12:09 PM
So I guess I can assume all of the people complaining about the negative effect on the environment from the splash sticks are using solar energy to power your computer? And how does your phone company or cable supplier get their energy so that you can get online? And I am SURE that your computer itself is 100% recycled right?
It is easy to condemn others if you need to find something negative, but unless you are completely innocent you really have no basis to complain.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 5:12:09 PM
And yet... you're complaining about people complaining.
Pot, kettle. Kettle, pot.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 5:26:55 PM
I've got an idea for a news story: Starbucks Gossip has jumped the shark?
So Starbucks is a bad company because they came out with a product for which there was intense demand? And, yes, there was demand. Customers used to request stoppers for the drink tops for as long as I've worked at Starbucks.
Posted by: Waltie | Apr 15, 2008 6:03:52 PM
customer asked for it. starbucks gave it to them. whats the complain all about? im also concerned with our nature of course.....thats why i dont ask for it if i dont need it.
very simple.
but thanks to the webmaster for putting it up here! i think its the smartest invention ever!
Posted by: coffee_master | Apr 15, 2008 6:28:48 PM
Maybe it was less expensive to offer splash sticks than it would be to cancel their contract with Solo cups? Or maybe Solo doesn't offer a lid with a flip tab that would fit the existing cups? Perhaps it will end up being less expensive in the long run? I don't know, just guessing.
Posted by: starbucks is for lovers | Apr 15, 2008 6:36:20 PM
Those Starbucks cups have been burping on my business attire for 21 freaking years! It is about time!
Posted by: GlenFeliz Regular | Apr 15, 2008 9:35:38 PM
Here here Waltie!
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 10:11:55 PM
Seriously? This is now an issue? Please think of a more interesting topic of discussion. Customers wanted these sticks and now it's up to them to be responsible enough to re-use them. Good grief.
Posted by: | Apr 15, 2008 11:34:51 PM
Smoky, I have an umbrella too (a black one with Starbuck's logo on it, from about 10 years ago). I wish they would bring back the t-shirts. I loved all of them! And the coffee mugs that are specific to an area, or a particular blend of brew....I'm drinking from a "Kenya" mug right now.
I love the "sipper" lids and think the stick is a great (and reusable) tool. Before I got one a few years back from an independent coffee cafe, I remember rolling up a piece of a napkin and sticking it in the hole to prevent spillage.
Here's a great line, which will probably give away my identity: whenever a barista asks "Room for milk," I reply "No, room for spillage!"
I completely agree with the posts above that refer to accidents. As someone that drives about 300 miles a week in my job....if this device prevents one death from an accident, it's worth it!
As always, I love Starbuck's
Posted by: Coffee Man | Apr 16, 2008 4:11:41 AM
Ah yes, the old napkin in the sippy hole, sounds very familiar.
I've been thinking of spash stix slogans, [hehe]...
Use a splash stix!
- save a napkin (and a tree)
Use a splash stix!
- more coffee in you, less on you
Use a splash stix!
- not "splash room"
And I think sbux should have different ones, like the mugs, maybe one for every state, so we can collect them, and then trade them like baseball cards (but hey, just remember to wash them first! :P)
Posted by: StLouieDrip | Apr 16, 2008 9:59:46 AM
"I realize that it's more waste, but they are certainly a convenience!"
And that is why we hate Starbucks. A non-renewable resource is depleted to satisfy the immediate gratification and convenience of the consumer through the use of disposable marketing materials.
The milk is from cows fed corn, the corn is made using oil. The cups are made from paper and oil. The coffee itself is most likely grown using oil as an ingredient. The drinks are sweetened from corn syrup, which once again is made from corn made from oil. The lids are made from oil. Now the "Splash Stick" is made from oil so that you can drive your oil powered vehicle at a fraction of it's capacity carrying your delicious oil made cup of oil made "foodstuffs".
All so that you can pretend you are drinking good coffee as you sip your cup of oil.
Posted by: Patriot Henry | Apr 16, 2008 10:33:58 AM
This is getting to be quite a routine. In this case:
-Starbucks does something that customers have been clamoring for forever.
-Customers are happy.
-Starbucks Gossip picks up the story, gives it a negative spin, and posts it.
-Anti-Starbucks zealots scream hateful things.
-REAL Starbucks customers defend it.
-SBUX Gossip dissolves into a flame war.
This is getting tiring! Note how the webmaster isn't even bothering to defend himself against the charges of bias. (Maybe cause he knows they're true?)
Posted by: MusicGal | Apr 16, 2008 11:21:36 AM
Or......
* Webmaster posts an item.
* A debate follows.
* Kool-Aid drinkers get upset because not everybody worships Starbucks.
Posted by: Flame War Fan | Apr 16, 2008 11:41:52 AM
All of my customers love them and have found them very useful.
Customers asked and Starbucks delivered. The company listened to the customers. And now they are getting bashed for it. Doesn't make sense.
Posted by: Alexandra | Apr 16, 2008 1:40:08 PM
are these gonna be available in the UK too?!?
Posted by: adey | Apr 16, 2008 2:08:40 PM
Oil makes corn?
Wow.
Posted by: | Apr 16, 2008 6:26:39 PM
So negative! So now that Starbucks is offering a solution that customers have wanted someone has to comment on more trash on the side of the road? Give me a break! I see people throwing trash and cigarette butts out of their car windows all the time. I see people leaving their trash from Mcdonalds on the ground in the parking lot because they are too lazy to walk it to the trash can. Ugggghhh! This website is so negative! If you don't like Starbucks then don't go there...move on with your life!
Posted by: | Apr 16, 2008 9:38:10 PM
The wemaster already told us a hundred times: he wants traffic because this is what brings him money from advertisers. If he wouldn't create controversies, traffic would slow down, means his income goes down means the site goes down. Anyway, I wouldn't come here almost everyday if all that happened was a little singing kumbaya...
webmaster, please just make sure there is the occasional postive post, otherwise it will get boring soon as well.
Thanks!
Posted by: Me | Apr 17, 2008 12:56:06 PM
as a partner of starbucks i'm all for having discussions on varying topics. the good, bad and the ugly. with such a succesful company there will always be negative , possibly jealous, people out there with different points of view. i'm okay with this because starbucks and it's partners do LISTEN to happy customers and to not-so-happy customers day in and day out. but what i find offensive is when a post comes across so cruel, insensitve and downright vile,about partners, that hopefully that is when mr. webmaster can step in and say okay, enough allready. i do know mr. webmaster did delete a post that started, F--- donuts,and the F--- was spelled out too, it's not like i have never heard the F bomb before but come on people....we're only talking coffee here...he he see ya
Posted by: smokey | Apr 17, 2008 3:35:40 PM
This is exactly why I hate modern America.
Posted by: Clint | Apr 19, 2008 1:10:55 PM
Flame War Fan:
* Webmaster posts an item.
* A debate follows.
* Kool-Aid drinkers get upset because not everybody worships Starbucks.
Oh but don't forget the other one...
*Starbucks haters get upset because not everybody hates Starbucks.
(except this time it's the splash stix haters, hehe)
Posted by: StLouieDrip | Apr 20, 2008 11:10:05 AM
get over yourselves, seriously, you people are classic haters, your not happy unless you have a target and for some of you it's SB, that is pathetic, go wash your dreadlocks and that travel mug you've refilling without washing for the past week and go start your own coffee business, LONG LIVE STARBUCKS & HER ANTI-SPILL STICKS
Tim from Houston
Posted by: Tim | Apr 20, 2008 7:09:19 PM
hey tim, RIGHT ON!!!! you are so hilarious... i can just picture the customer in dreadlocks with the filthy travel mug!!!! onward with the starbucks experience, afterall "THE THIRD PLACE" STARTED AT STARBUCKS AND WILL FOREVER REMAIN SO UNTIL THE END OF TIME....... i love you howie and for all you stand for. bye spoodles.
Posted by: smokey | Apr 20, 2008 7:33:26 PM
hey tim, RIGHT ON!!!! you are so hilarious... i can just picture the customer in dreadlocks with the filthy travel mug!!!! onward with the starbucks experience, afterall "THE THIRD PLACE" STARTED AT STARBUCKS AND WILL FOREVER REMAIN SO UNTIL THE END OF TIME....... i love you howie and for all you stand for. bye spoodles.
Posted by: smokey | Apr 20, 2008 7:33:28 PM
Well, I've yet to get my first splash stix, but somehow I like them already. :P
Posted by: StLouieDrip | Apr 20, 2008 11:10:45 PM
Just don't choke on one!
Make a great fishing lure!
Posted by: | Apr 21, 2008 12:11:57 AM
I got a splash stick myself some weeks ago from my local Starbucks (I'm from Malaysia); I thought it was so cute that I had to keep it!
http://lifeasacynic.blogspot.com/2008/03/starbucks-siren-stirrerscup-plugs.html
Frankly I have no problems with the sticks; my only problem is with the lids with open holes where accidents might happen...
Posted by: synical | Apr 21, 2008 8:34:35 AM
You nailed it!
Posted by: Michael Dawson | Apr 22, 2008 2:34:53 PM
oh my god, it's a piece of plastic that keeps coffee off of your hand IT MUST BE THE WORK OF THE DEVILLLLLL!!!
please get over yourself. it is not a corporation's responsibility to make sure you don't litter.
splash sticks ftw.
Posted by: | Apr 23, 2008 6:07:56 PM
So useful for when your coffee is in the cupholder of a stroller. Rattling over gravel used to be the messiest activity ever. Love it.
Posted by: macchiato | Apr 28, 2008 3:10:44 PM
