So, Starbucks has opened a new type of cafe...looks like an independent place and is called something other than Starbucks:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/jul/22/starbucks

I guess to appeal to people who want to support independent retailers. What do you think of this? I feel very cynical, so I say SHAM! 

Damn interesting.  Wonder if they will be able to pull it off.

Actually, they will probably be able to charge more for their product as they will be targeting the person who is against "big business' (something I think is dubious).

In other words, pay a dollar more for your cup in order to stick it to Starbucks.  

Interesting debate who is responsible for this. The business for being manipulative or the consumer for being so easy to manipulate?  

 I just think it's sort of funny that big business can exploit the backlash against big business.

This just makes me laugh, really. Way to try to hide, Starbucks!

according the article, they are trying to go back to their humble roots. :::cough cough:::

Pity about the real independent cafe next door who claims they ripped off their decor...

yes, it is funny they can exploit this! like my local giant grocery that calls itself "marketplace" with their quaint "rustic bread".