Starbucks has become a popular company for selling the best tasting coffee products and the highest quality of coffee beans. As a result, Starbucks has acquired a solid brand reputation and has a world-renowned company logo trademark. There are no other national coffee bar competitors on the same scale as Starbucks. They are the only competitor in the coffee bar market that has a recognized brand image. They also own trademarks, copyrights, domain names, and patents.
             By looking at their latest quarterly SEC filing, it is apparent that the company is in a positive financial condition. They are virtually debt-free and are in a good cash flow position. The company has also realized a steady sales growth rate. During the 13 weeks ended June 27, 2004, all areas of Starbucks business, from domestic and international retail operations to the Company's specialty businesses, delivered strong financial performance, and innovation was prevalent throughout the Company's operations.
             The management of this coffee chain is very conscious of the fact that all things matter in running their business. They have a separate licensing division which is in charge of hiring, employee training, the store appearance, atmosphere, and products sold. This ensures that all stores look and offer the same things to all people, no matter whether the store is located in part of a library or on a street corner. Starbucks is one of the first companies to recognize the lucrative opportunities in beverage retailing, not just in coffee beans. Their large product line includes coffee, baked goods, CD's, ice cream, bottled Frappuccino, etc. Their products are distributed through company-operated retail stores in highly visible locations in addition to well-known grocery store chains.
             Customer service allows a company to interact with its customers on a personal level. Fortunately, one of the main strengths of Starbucks is its employees and the service they pro...