Archive for February, 2008

It’s been a while since I last wrote a post here.   The past few months have been quite busy to say the least.   So, let’s just cut to the chase and do a quick recap.  Unless you’ve been out of the loop, here’s some interesting developments:

1. The US markets have been extremely “choppy” the past few months.
2. The Federal Reserve system cut US interest rates twice.
3. The Bush Administration recently signed a bill that will provide short-term recession relief and stimulate our troubled economy.
4. I’ve been watching a lot of Jim Cramer’s “Mad Money” on CNBC.

What does this all have to do with Starbucks?  Nothing at all.  I was just doing a quick recap given my long break from this blog.

Now, why am I writing about Starbucks?  On Monday, the Seattle-based company issued an important press release.   Essentially, Starbucks is ending its relationship with Verizon wireless and entering into a new comprehensive agreement with AT&T.  The net impact means Starbucks will give customers who use a Starbucks purchase card two hours of free wireless access per day.  In addition,  nearly all of AT&T’s broadband Internet customers, about 12 million, will automatically have unlimited free Wi-Fi access at Starbucks.

If you’re thinking what I’m thinking, then this is a ploy to sell more coffee.  The longer you spend at a Starbucks smelling that fresh roasted coffee, the more tempted you are to purchase a tall or grande size (or two).

Personally, I have no problem with this strategy.  In fact, I applaud the move because I am already an AT&T broadband customer.  Up until this announcement, my Wi-Fi access was limited to McDonald’s, Barnes&Noble, and various hotels where AT&T has existing agreements.

When will this service roll out?  This spring.  So, get ready to telecommute with your Wi-Fi device from a local Starbucks.  We just might bump into each other.