Starbucks to get rid of warm breakfast sandwiches

Howard Schultz made the announcement in his Wednesday conference call with analysts. "The scent of the warm sandwiches interferes with the aroma of the stores," he said. (Boy, is he right!) Stores will still offer warmed pastries. (Associated Press reports the no-more-warm-sandwiches news.) || You can listen to a replay of the call at this link.

** The warm sandwiches "are going to be out by year's end." In the meantime, they will be "de-emphasized."

** Serving sandwiches got in the way of employees' "ability to make the perfect shot of espresso." In other words, spending time on sandwiches took away from the focus on coffee.

** The sandwiches will be replaced with "a breakfast menu that delivers what our customers are asking for."

** "We're going to be in the lunch business; we're going to modify it."

** "We are bringing back our annual leadership conference." There will also be open forums for all partners.

** Re the $1 short coffee, Schultz reminds analysts: "This offering is just a test."

** Schultz also notes that "it has only been three weeks since we made leadership changes, but we have made significant progress."

** Although underperforming stores are being closed and new-store growth has been slowed, Starbucks is still a "growth company," says Schultz.

** Detailed turnaround plans will be disclosed at the March annual meeting.

Comments

[Pat Nerr]

"I think one of the guiding principles says that to remember profitability is essential to our future growth. If you work at a movie store and only sold old movies and never sold the new releases why would anyone come in. Same way with any business you have to try new things to better the business. People need to quit taking things so personally and just do their job."

please don't compare coffee shop culture to rental movie culture. It's not the same... nobody romanticizes about Italian Blockbusters in Milan. Starbucks could learn a thing or two (and Howard knows this) from Italy's coffee bars. They keep it simple, they keep it quick and they make it good... Now go ahead and rail me on how this is America, but there are over 2000 coffee bars in Rome alone and some have been in business for over 100 years... strive for that kind of relavancy with your customers...

[biff_wellington]

I guess I just don't get all the "stuff" about the smell. I don't notice anything different. Phasing out the sandwiches seems like a waste to me. The company has spent all this money on installing ovens etc. Although glad to know the ovens are staying at least...prior to the sandwiches the store I frequent couldn't even toast a bagel until they had the ovens.

Since the sandwiches are pre-made, seems like if there was a demand it wouldn't be a problem to keep them on the menu, or if the "smell" is really the problem, then keep them only at breakfast hours instead of all day.

Sbux spent the money on the ovens and the training, you can bet they are going to have a warm sandwich soon--for the lunch business as mentioned, which will "smell" and we will be having the same conversation.

[STARBUCKS GOSSIP webmaster]

>>>>I guess I just don't get all the "stuff" about the smell. I don't notice anything different.

I can take you to some of the suburban Chicago Starbucks where the smell is OVERWHELMING. One barista was complaining to me about how she absolutely stinks when he finishes her shift because of the sandwich stench.

[jc]

YES!!!! Starbucks will return to a third place envirnment after all.

Thanks Mr. Schultz! After 4 years I left the Company a few weeks before you "came back."

As a customer I had completely stopped hanging out at Starbucks long before that. I feel the Starbucks experience isn't really that pleasant. Often the stores are smelly, noisey, dirty and very run-down. I go to other places. If I'm on the go? I get faster service at competitors.

Starbucks is full of good people bottom to top and I really look forward to the upcoming changes. I see the company not just returning to where it was but going to even better places!

THANK YOU MR. SCHULTZ!!

former partner 1171823

P.S. CLEAN SWEEP!!!

[Jess]

I've been with the company for 7 years now, and I have to say I LOVE what Howard is doing. It's been a looooong time coming. I, for one, am immensely passionate about coffee and my customers. I was none too happy when they rolled out the prepacks. Yes, they made life "easier", but they took something away. Like we were just packaging up the "starbucks experience", and getting it out the door faster. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the idea of bringing back the bullets and grinding FRESH coffee EVERYDAY. And the leadership conferneces are something that has been missing for such a long time, it's something that is needed. I cannot say how GLAD I am that Howard is back. Hiring Jim Donald was a mistake, and I've always felt that way...

[ensenadajim]

Decaf? No way.

"Enraged" - about the sandwiches?

Totally clueless statement.

I like the sandwiches for the reasons originally given - they were just the right size and what I liked to have following a bike ride (when your are supposed to put in some protein and fat into your body).

Now, instead of going to my local Starbuck's to have that after ride - cool down break, grab a bit of nutrition - it will be elsewhere. And the tip right with it.

Then there was the statement that "making" the sandwiches was an issue. ??? who are you trying t kid? They are already done, all you do is heat them. You doggone near do just as much to make a new pot of coffee and how many of you are fussing about that? Not a single solitary person. So, nice try - does not wash. It is

If anything "enrages" me, it is the mental midgets who think they have an actual clue about me and who I am.

BTW, if you want to know the real reason your tips are falling - it is the prevalence of ATM/gift cards.

Anyone out there in Starbuck's barristaland ever thought that as the use of these cards has risen, the tips have gone down? There is probably an inverse relationship between the two.

jim

[Rebecca]

I stopped going to Starbucks over a year ago, and one of the main reasons was because I couldn't sit in there anymore. I couldn't stand the chemical-y, burnt cheese smell, the stuffed retail tables taking over the store that I had to be careful not to knock over, and the movie/music promotions being shoved in my face. I see this as a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen if I will go back to Starbucks in the future.

[Announcements]

In other news, Starbucks has recently discontinued Orange syrup and replaced it with Grape syrup. Starbucks stock went up 25% following the announcement. The company announced it would be renaming more of their syrups and sauces to make it easy for the public. For example, Sugar Free Vanilla is now called Diet Vanilla wheras Raspberry is simply called Berry.

As part of Schultz's "Back to Day One Initiative", he has changed his name to Howard H. Howard to avoid confusion with the comic book artist Charles Schultz. Shortly after that announcement (about 28 seconds) one of the board members told him that those initials were already taken by current WWE Superstar Triple H. After rethinking his decision he came up with "Howard Schultz Goes to Pike Place". Place sees himself as a character who is always in trouble with other board members but his decisions always turn out right. Watch Howard's adventures now appearing on the Fox Network.

This message is brought to you by Microsoft, the creators of Windows 3.1 and DOS. Modern technology at the touch of your fingertips.

[sue]

You guys are crazy, the introduction of the breakfast sandwiches was a great addition to the menu and selection at Sbux, it made it a one-stop gourmet breakfast spot, and now they're ruining the experience. I seriously doubt taking away the sandwiches is going to be what makes the difference. If you wanna smell the coffee, open your cup and take a whiff, if you're really eager to go in there for that long to sit and enjoy the aroma and the beans, you really need to find some new hobbies. I just had a turkey bacon sandwich and light latte this morning, one of the healthier breakfast options in the busy Herald Square area of NY , engrossed in a sea of greasy fry deli's. I'll be enjoying as many as I can before they go away, so sorry baristas, you'll just have to spend that extra minute serving me after all, at least until October.

[Christine]

I love the sandwiches - bad move!!!!

[Dave]

oh my aching bones. Absolutely daft decision. With the sandwich gone my one stop breakfast and a coffee stop goes somewhere else. Adios Starbucks.

"Totally clueless statement"

"Now, instead of going to my local Starbuck's to have that after ride - cool down break, grab a bit of nutrition - it will be elsewhere. And the tip right with it."

"If anything "enrages" me, it is the mental midgets who think they have an actual clue about me and who I am"

"Hope you whiners are satisfied,"

"As far as being a "mean" - your ignorance is astounding. You really should not put that on public display"

"Finally, remember this:

I pay your wages."

Wow, in just this one thread you have managed to insult people 6 times. Is the reason you come on here to act superior? I read your posts calling people ignorant, clueless, mental midgets and whiners and it astounds me that you can be so condescending. Maybe it makes you feel good to speak to people this way, you should look into that.

"You know, Starbucks sells these things (as so other places, too). They're called coffee machines and espresso machines.

They allow you to make coffee and espresso-based drinks at home! I know, right!"

You know, I DID say that you could make them at home - but you DON'T. So if you were forced to, yes, you'd make them at home or just go without - but you can bet if Sbux went away, there'd be plenty of bitching by customers - including you. So, next time you don't think you need baristas, why don't you stay home and try to make the ridiculously complicated drinks we make. I'm sure you could, but do it without bitching. Aaaand go!

The customer is NOT always right. You should always do what you can to satisfy them, even if they are WRONG. But no, they are not always right.

[zoom]

I'm pretty happy about having sandwiches removed from our stores. With what's being talked about, that $600 a week in lost sales can be made up in streamlining our operations in other areas of our business. I have been ordering 5lb bullets for COW for 7 yrs, and I will be the first to say the doing away with 9oz prepacks has more to do with costs and product quality than aroma.

I'm looking forward to having Leadership Conferences again, as well as skip level meetings and Open Forums. If you are going to spend money, use it to empower and develope those partners that are an integral part of the future success of our Company. The feeling coming back from these events is found money, and the trickle down impact is has at the store level is tremendous.

Anyways, I been on vacation while all this happened, so I'm looking for what Monday has in store.

[shebrews]

getting back to basics and coffee is a smart move----making it a starbucks bar and grill prostituted it--

It's the artist dilemma, real art or quick sales, you have heard of "starving artists"....perhaps Starbucks needs to decide who they are....

I also think "saturation" of anything brings a fast death of desire....so, too many Starbucks? Exclusivity seems to make things appear more desireable, but does it help the amount of sales?

I wrestle with this marketing problem all the time.....Presently, I think this man is doing a smart thing---if he can hold to it. I like the snobbery of exclusivity---it is part of the enjoyment of getting the thing--so what if Starbucks isn't the Wal-mart of Coffee? Do I want it to be?

I agree with JC and Rebecca above, but I would also add that training needs to be more of a focus. If there's a great manager in the store, the staff reflects that person. If it's not a good manager, everything suffers. I am most concerned about the gossip that goes on, not only about other employees, but especially customers. I've stopped going to some Starbucks because of all the gossip.

My personal opinion is that the omission of the breakfast sandwiches is a good move....I definitely miss the coffee smell. Now just get some more comfy chairs!

Not trying to offend anyone with the comments about training, but it is very hurtful. I guess it's more a part of growing up for 18-25 year olds, than training, but I hope you understand. As my parents used to say to me, you'll understand when you're older. Now I know what they meant!!

[SoCAL STARBUCKS REBEL]

McDonald's actually have real egg in theirs it at least looks and tastes like egg not an egg substitute patty. I am glad they are gone. maybe we could spend the time making French press for the customer. thats one $4 coffee thats worth it

[SoCAL STARBUCKS REBEL]

We need to offer more items that when warmed have aromas that compliment the coffee aroma like cinnamon, berry, lemony, don't forget Chocolaty. Chocolate actually increases the body's ability to take in the caffine therefor greater effect. we should offer more chocolate items. we could warm like delicious melty chocolaty crossant

[NYBarista]

as far as the time factor, i think bagels make it worse. theres slicing the bagel, (which is a pain by itself), then putting it in the oven, then seeing that it takes 30 seconds to warm, theres not really enough time to do anything while its in there cuz it will burn if it beeps more than once.

at least with the sandwiches, you could set it for the minute and pour the coffee.

just my experience.

Just so you all know...not ALL partners purposfully sabatage a customer or his/her drink. I REFUSE to hand out a drink that I know a partner "messed up" on. And iced white mochas...I'm handing it right back to you if you didn't stir it and all the white mocha is at the bottom. NOT acceptable. I take pride in my work when I'm on bar...so should you and not just take the short cut. ...Yeah! No more breakfast sandwiches. I loved the taste of them and I didn't mind taking the time to warm them, but they deffinately did smell like butt! So I completely understand. Scones are good warmed up, too! ...I also think it's funny that every single thread eventually turns to tipping. Everyone has different oppinions. There are cheapskates out there and there are people who tip for everything. It evens out. And people are always going to argue and disagree...so...lets agree to disagree. And lets talk about OTHER issues for once! Geez. ...And it IS a Siren, btw. ;-)

[tonyg]

Non partner here - just a customer. I am very disappointed to see the breakfast sandwiches go. I was never a breakfast person until I got hooked on the reduced fat turkey bacon's. Now with a decent Starbucks breakfast and a Grande decaf every morning I've dropped 23 pounds - as well as spending about $200.00 per month to support Howard's ideas. Needless to say I never went to Starbucks to smell the aroma nor do I think anyone every does. Most of us customers know what we are going t order prior to walking through the Starbucks doors. So here it is - a disappointed customer and one that no doubt will be spending less at Starbucks after the sandwiches are gone. One other thing - I used to love Strawberry Pineapple Frappacinnos a couple summers ago. I always thought combining a Banana and Pineapple Frappacinno would taste great. Thus both would have to be available this coming summer.

[ensenadajim]

To the numerically challenged one above: "I pay your wages" is not an insult - it is a statement of fact.

did I insult anyone? Probably, but I notice your sole criticism is insults, not about the facts that were presented.

Thanks for not disagreeing with those. Hehehehe!

jim

[Leonard]

Mmmmm bought a SBUX sausage sandwich this morning (though I didn't like the SB employee wrinkling her nose at me when I asked how many pumps of vanilla go into a venti latte. Your service levels really have dropped.) Delicious, and will be sorely missed.

BTW, You all need to open up more drive-through locations. Much better than awkwardly grouping around the end of the human assembly line. And my drive-thru location near my home has the best service, nicest people, and most consistently well-done drinks of any SB I've seen, by far.

[i loved the wraps]

I am very upset to see the bfast sandwiches go. I would go every morning to get a spinach/feta wrap and while i was there i usually got a coffee. I spent a little under $10 a day there. Now that they will be gone, i'll go someplace else for a breakfast sandwhich (probably the little sandwhich place down the street) and i'll just make free coffee at work. I think starbucks is silly for pulling these. they were always sold out before 10 and people loved them. i think it drew a much higher crowd than normal and i think you will lose a lot of customers as a result.

[Jeff]

As a customer, is it true that Starbucks deducts tips from a barista's paycheck? The Starbucks I go to usually gives really good service, and if I'm there awhile, I'll throw in a dollar or so. But if it's being taken from the baristas anyway, I can't see wasting a dollar.

You can't tell me that that many customers are bothered by the smell of the sandwiches when they sell out every morning by 11. That's ridiculous. I'll be going back to Coffee Bean when they're gone. The quality of their coffee is far superior anyway.

[Jimbo]

There seems to be a lot of customers here that enjoy the sandwiches. I hope that all of you are also complaining to Starbucks and not just posting on blogs. Let's face it, without the breakfast sandwiches Starbucks is just a mediocre cup of coffee that I could get anywhere else.

[Adam]

"The perfect shot of espresso"

I was a partner back in 2000 and again in 2006.

I like coffee, but...just like wine (which I also enjoy) I have never been truly convinced that a lot of the "coffee snobbery" we run into actually matters.

Howard SEEMS serious about this, though...so much so that it has clearly raised the issue of the automatic machines.

Replacing these machines with manual ones can't REALLY be an option, though...not with the financial condition of the company at this point...

I will say, though, that when I started in 2000...shot timing was SERIOUS BUSINESS. If it wasn't between 18 and 23 (I think those were the magic numbers) you threw it out. I remember many mornings where there was a line out the door, and I would have to pull shots multiple times for each drink. We also weren't allowed to "mark" shots with milk or syrup to "save" them...they were supposed to have been used within 10 seconds or they, too, got thrown out (this rule wasn't QUITE as strict as the 18-23 rule).

In 2006, when I worked in a different market...this time with an automatic machine...shot times were difficult to adjust, and easy to ignore. It would sometimes take a dozen or more drinks for me to notice that the shots were (usually) long...and then a dozen or more before I had a chance to open up the machine, get out the timer, and fix them.

Just something I wanted to throw out there. No point, really...other than, watching that little red timer on the old machines made the whole thing kindof like a fun game. =)

I wonder if the auto machines could somehow be upgraded to time each shot as it pours (I'm PRETTY sure it doesn't do this now...at least the one at my most recent store didn't.)

[Legendary or Bust]

Again, where does it say anything about stirring white mochas? Iced or hot? And what utensil shall I use to stir the drink? A Green Tea Latte spoon? In which part of the BRM does it speak of that?

[john]

I have recently heard that your company, Starbucks, is going to discontinue the breakfast sandwiches, including the Spinach Wraps.
This would be a big mistake to discontinue them, as customers such as myself have come to expect high quality sandwiches like these from Starbucks. I hope to convince you to continue selling the breakfast sandwiches, including the Spinach Wraps.

I am very disappointed to have heard that you are planning to discontinue your breakfast sandwiches, especially the spinach wrap.
They taste very good and are healthy, and for a reasonable price. And they are far superior to anything else that other restaurants offer for a comparable price.

I generally stop by Starbucks 2 or 3 times a week to get a Spinach Wrap and coffee.

Since I have become accustomed to such a high quality breakfast, if you discontinue the Spinach Wraps I will have to make mine at home and thus also start brewing my own coffee at home to drink with my homemade Spinach Wrap. I used to brew my own coffee at home, but threw out my coffee brewer as I found myself only drinking coffee from Starbucks.
I would prefer to continue purchasing my Spinach Wraps and coffee at Starbucks since you offer such a good quality product for a reasonable price.
But if you discontinue the Spinach Wraps, you will loose my business for both the Spinach Wraps and for coffee, since I will have to start brewing my own coffee at home to drink with my homemade Spinach Wraps.

Please tell me you will reconsider discontinuing the Spinach Wraps.

Sincerely,
John

[Mama]

Ok, once and final -- tips are imputed - PER IRS REQUIREMENT!! Because tips weren't/aren't being reported to SBUX, so they can take the taxes out on them, even though the IRS KNOWS we are getting them, they now impute tips at $.50/hr so that the IRS is getting taxes for them -- SO THAT WE AS PARTNERS AREN'T RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TAXES AT THE END OF THE YEAR!! We should be so grateful. No, our tips are not REMOVED from our paychecks -- only the taxes we are supposed to be responsible for paying!

BostonRebel -- you make me very sad and very offended to think that we are both labeled partners when I wouldn't DREAM of being so unprofessional. Tips truly are a gift -- but one that we need to deserve, and yes, I know what TIPS originally stood for, but they haven't been used that way in decades, if not closer to a century!! Go look for your Green Apron book, there should be one for every partner in your store!

Oh, and I've been around this company since not long after Howard took over -- the FIRST time!

[Seattlestarbucks]

** The sandwiches will be replaced with "a breakfast menu that delivers what our customers are asking for."

I'm asking for breakfast sandwiches you moron.

It's not the coffee that's screwing them up, it's over-saturation of the market. The brand is overused and old. They cut so many corners to sell out that they sold themselves short. The air port "Starbucks" have food that tastes like ass. A Starbucks should be a real store or nothing at all. I hope he clues into this.

[Brian Vita]

Yesterday afternoon my wife and I went to the Starbucks that we have been frequenting almost daily (sometimes several times a day) for the past five years. The manager called me aside claiming that some of the female partners had complained that I had made inappropriate comments to them. The following is excerpted from my written response to the manager:

>>I spoke with you over the phone later in the afternoon and again asked for specifics. After some hesitation, you referred to “something about tight jeans” that I had allegedly said to Candace. Since I would never comment on a partner’s or customer’s attire, it took me a bit to realize that the offending comment was actually something that I had said about my own jeans. Earlier this week I had purchased an iced tea and was paying by exact change. I was having difficulty getting coins out of my pants pocket and comment that “its tough getting change out of tight jeans”. This was not sexual or offensive in nature but rather offered as a way of an apology for holding up the line and making her wait.

With respect to alleged comments made to Meredith, the only incident that comes to mind is one of about a month ago where, after screwing up multiple times over the course of a week by charging the credit card side of my wife’s Duetto card instead of the gift card side, I explained to her that this upsets my wife very much and that she, being somewhat obsessive about these things, proceeds to take it out on me. If she couldn’t get the card straight, it wasn’t worth my coming in for beverages.

There was an incident about a week ago where I came in about 9:40 for my nightly iced tea and was told that they were out. I believe that both Meredith and Candice were on duty that night. I commented that I’m glad that I rushed across town to get it. Apparently I made quite the impression with the ladies because the incident was relayed to me, with far greater drama, the next morning by Becky. Apparently even though you advertise that you’re open until 10PM, a patron cannot get their beverage of choice after the staff decides that they are not up to making it.<<

I guess as a customer I can't criticize the service without running a risk of being called to the principal's office. Please note than in none of the cases did I use profane language, sexual innuendo or comment on the employee's attire or looks. For the past several years my wife and I have spent an average of $200-$300/month at Starbucks. I guess that I'll take my business elsewhere.

[JOE]

Starbucks brewed coffe tastes old and stale. I think it's because it sits in thermal carafes for who knows how long. This extended period of time allows the sediment collect at the bottom of the pot so you get a acidic burnt stale taste. Coffee needs to be served when it is first brewed. Two things that ruin coffee are oxygen and sitting on a warming plate which scorches the coffee and alters the flavor. Do you notice if you make home brewed coffee at home it tastes fresh and has good aroma. Another thing i wonder is if starbucks uses each coffee pack more than once in the espresso machine. Sometimes espresso based drinks taste diluted, so could this be from running multiple shots of water through one coffee pack?

[meg]

I LOVED LOVED LOVED the sausage egg chedder breakfast sandwich :( it was the best thing I've ever eaten at starbucks (their pastries are kinda lacking) guess I will just be stopping through for my coffee now, but this is silly because in DC at least these were really popular in the 3 starbucks I go to :(

[tracey]

I'm SO sad about the breakfast sammies! The spinach-feta wrap is beyond yummy. And, at only 5 Weight Watcher points, it's a veritable steal in the breakfast category. The problem with McD's breakfast (among others) is you can't seem to get anything there that isn't cozying up to some greasy meat product, except the hotcakes which are a dietary nightmare in and of themselves. KEEP THE WRAPS!!!! I DON'T WANT A MILLION CARBS FOR BREAKFAST!!!!!

[Bummed]

Well, I guess I don't want to know what was in those sandwiches. I liked them and that brought me into the stores. The rolls tasted fresher and better than McD's or Duncan Donuts... I guess it's back to Duncan or McD's for sandwiches and coffee for me.

Huge mistake...Driving folks to Mc D's or anywhere they can get a sandwich and coffee.... the gas station?

Sandwiches at the gas station are not nearly delicious as the peppered bacon sandwich with the maple taste (sniff, sniff, oh, god! say it isn't so) but the coffee is a lot better and you can make it anyway you want for a little more than a buck.

Stupid Starbucks. The only reason I went there was to buy those yummy sandwhiches. Hated the bitter, overpriced coffee and all the fat women buying stupid fraps. I was afraid to get one because I was sure it would make me fat. The proof is in the puddin' baby.

Gawd! You did it to yourselves. Building one in every grocery store, two in the same block...are you insane...you think cutting sandwiches is going to help you?

[delighted]

I am so happy they are getting rid of those disgusting sandwiches. Ever since they started selling them i have been avoiding Starbucks because the smell was awful. Starbucks should be about coffee, not fast food. Thank you Mr. Schultz!!

[Raheen]

Because Starbucks has unfortunately decided not to offer free internet to non T-mobile customers, and given the fact that their coffee honestly isn't very good, the breakfast sandwiches (and the lemon iced cakes) are the *only* reasons I even go there...please save the sandwiches! ...at least the bacon, egg, & cheese! :-)

[sandwich lover]

This is the biggest mistake they have made. I never went to Starbucks on a regular basis until they started carrying the breakfast sandwiches. I have already switched back to making my coffee at home and plan to quit Starbucks altogether once the sandwiches are gone.

If you ask me the baristas are the only ones bitching about the sandwiches and the smell, seems no one listened to the customers on this one.

[malasay]

THIS IS DEVASTATING!!! IF YOU DON'T AGREE, YOU HAVE OBVIOUSLY NEVER HAD THE SPINACH FETA WRAP.

IS THERE ANYTHING WE CAN DO TO STOP THIS???

[Ria Rhodes]

1. shares down 45% from last top

2. leave the tip jars alone. more litigation costing shareholders return.

3. Shultz buys company that makes machine that makes $7-$5 buck-a-cup cafe? Sold on idea because he saw a line of people waiting for a cup of this at a small competitor? Slap me, I'm in shock.

4. No more share a cup of stale regular brew with a friend shareholder card this year - please give shareholders something of real value while we see or share price descend towards a capital loss for taxes next year.

[Nat]

The warm breakfast sandwiches are AMAZING and they smell much better than the sour milk scent when you walk into a dirty starbucks. I look forward to the sandwiches, especially the whole wheat muffin or the spinach feta wrap. I will drive 10 extra minutes to get one of these for breakfast!

[Starbucks minion]

I feel like getting rid of the breakfast sandwiches would be benficial to the baristas since we dont have to run all over to place. The sandwiches can be a pain when it is very busy but ultimately it is causing starbucks to lose customers because people do not want to make 2 stops in the morning on the way to work. especially when working people can just make one stop at a joint like dunkin donuts, whose coffee tastes like nasty toilet water, if you eat enough donuts you dont care what the coffee tastes like. When it comes down to it. PEOPLE NEED CONVENIENCE. taking away breakfast sandwiches will only cause people to find another place to go. I have noticed a huge decline in customers lately. it will only get worse.... starbucks is not paying attention to what the customer wants.

[toph]

Grr. They are phasing them out in the U.S. but bringing them in here in Canada. I've started avoiding Starbucks because the smell of breakfast sandwiches is really the last thing i want in the morning. I'd rather have a lingering scent of coffee than that of bacon..

http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/theappetizer/archive/2008/05/15/Starbucks-does-breakfast.aspx

[Lina]

Fact: These AVERAGE 47 grams of fat EACH. Yummy: yes, healthy: no!

[interested]

I know we are getting something to replace the sandwiches...anyone know what yet? I heard they were testing something around Seattle but i cant seem to confirm anything.....anyone?

[Carlos Hernandez]

I decided to become a Starbucks customer based on word-of-mouth marketing from other customers who liked the breakfast sandwiches.

I came...I liked the sandwiches and coffee...and now I go elsewhere once I heard the decision to drop them.

I make the extra effort to find an independent coffee house that offers both.

Power to the consumer.