Do you consider a $9 coffee to be an "affordable experience"?

@NJChicaa (126971)
United States
May 1, 2026 3:45pm CST
The CEO of Starbucks was recently asked about the price of the company's drinks. He claimed that the company was doing well with millenials and Gen Z customers with cups of coffee that start as low as $3 and then rise as they are customized with other additions. The CEO, Brian Niccol, is quoted as saying: "What we’re seeing is people, you know, they want to have a special experience, and regardless of what your income level is. In some cases, you know, a $9 experience does feel like you’re splurging." He went on to say: "And then in other cases, certain people believe, ‘Well, this is a really affordable premium experience.’ Because they’re saying like, ‘Well it’s less than $10 and I get a really premium experience'." Niccol also stated that they aren't playing the standard "value game" that other places do by offering cheaper items at more palatable price points. To his mind the value is in the product, the seats, and a good interaction with the barista despite the fact that the drinks cost more than most. I will say that I am not someone who regularly orders coffee on-the-go while shopping, on the way to work, etc. I also have never enjoyed Starbucks--I'm a Dunkin girl. I realize that a $9 or $10 cost for a drink involves a couple of additions/customizations but there's just no way I'm spending that much for a coffee. If I ordered something at Starbucks and it came up at $9 I would 1) laugh in their face and 2) walk out. But that's just me. Would you pay that much for a coffee drink?
As Americans struggle with the the price of gas and groceries, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol made the case for a $9 cup of coffee.
6 people like this
6 responses
@DianneN (254687)
• United States
4h
Yes
3 people like this
3h
I think £2 is too much Which is why I have such an extensive range of coffee and coffee machines chez nous
1 person likes this
@MarieCoyle (57790)
3h
No, I wouldn’t. You know I love my coffee. But I prefer coffee to be strong and dark, forget the fancy stuff. I just make mine at home-have Contigo mug,will travel!!
2 people like this
@toniganzon (76907)
• Philippines
2h
Can you believe that in our city, coffee is expensive and Starbucks is considered affordable? Yes, that's affordable even with the add ons rising up to $10.
1 person likes this
@RasmaSandra (96846)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
3h
I don't drink coffee but I would not expect it to be so much maybe about $5. Then I got curious and asked about iced tea which I drink and it said that would be between $2 to $5,
2 people like this
@Traceyjayne (10429)
• United Kingdom
2h
I love coffee but I wouldn’t pay that.
1 person likes this
4h
Eh no Wouldn't pay that I too would laugh and walk out.
2 people like this