When you walk through the hallways at Benilde St. Margaret’s, you’ll spot plenty of students holding familiar plastic Starbucks cups. Whether it’s a strawberry acai, an iced coffee, or chai, Starbucks has held its spot as the go-to coffee shop for a long time. However, I believe there could be a significant shift. Dunkin’ is on the rise, and it might just be outshining Starbucks.
I love Starbucks. Their drinks are consistently good, their stores are cozy, and the brand has become a staple coffee company. But while Starbucks has stayed in its comfort zone, Dunkin’ has been stepping up its game. From affordable prices to new drinks, they are proving that you don’t need a seven-dollar latte to start your morning right.
The first thing Dunkin gets right is accessibility. Drinks at Starbucks can quickly get expensive, especially for students. At Dunkin, you can grab a large refresher for nearly half the price of a venti at Starbucks. That difference adds up, especially when coffee runs become a daily routine. Dunkin also makes it easy to customize drinks without spending extra for every little add-on. Whether you want extra caramel, whipped cream, or lemonade, it doesn’t make you feel like you’re getting charged for every sip.
The second thing Dunkin’ nails is its rewards system. With the Dunkin app, you can earn free drinks and food way faster than you can at Starbucks. After just a few visits, you’re already close to a free coffee or refresher. At Starbucks, it feels like you have to spend forever just to earn one reward. Dunkin makes it easier and quicker to get something back, which definitely can keep people coming back for more.
Another reason Dunkin’ stands out is its food. Starbucks has a few good breakfast items, but Dunkin’s menu goes way beyond that. From breakfast sandwiches and hash browns to bagels and dozens of donut flavors, there’s something for every mood. It’s also more filling and affordable; you can grab a whole meal for about the same price as just a Starbucks latte and a cake pop. Whether you’re in a rush before school or want a quick snack after class, Dunkin has options for every situation.
Ultimately, Dunkin’ is demonstrating its ability to compete with Starbucks on price, variety, and convenience. The next time you walk through the hallways at BSM, don’t be surprised if more people are carrying a Dunkin’ cup instead of a Starbucks cup.