Starbucks or Dunkin'?

Ah yes, one of life's most important questions in our era - Is Starbucks or Dunkin' the better option? This debate will likely go until the end of time, but it's important to note how each company's perks can help you; no matter the situation you're in. In fact, you're likely sitting in one of these stores at the moment reading this post, or even at a Panera Bread (which is a totally different debate at that point). Below, I share my opinions on each company, as I have had interactions with many of these franchises across the mid-Atlantic due to traveling & recruiting for Gwynedd Mercy University and Widener University.

Some of you may agree with my beliefs, while many you will likely disagree; just like any debate. I hope you enjoy this post, but most importantly, become open to learning more about both ends of the spectrum since a handful of you are loyal fans of one over the other!

Starbucks

There is a more welcoming environment at Starbucks; given that you don't even have to purchase anything to use their free Wi-Fi & space. Even better, you're allowed to stay at their location for as long as you want and can bring your own drinks from elsewhere into their stores.

Starbucks has a selective array of quality food options to choose from, that are far beyond healthier than Dunkin's selection. For instance, I recently ate their turkey bacon, egg white, and fat-free cheddar English muffin. The content of it has only 230 calories, 5 grams of fat, 28 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of protein.

The prices at Starbucks are a little more expensive than Dunkin', but you're also getting quality service, seating, space, and unique food/drink options that you can't really get elsewhere.

Starbucks has a unique marketing presence, and does well with millennials and younger crowds. However, it has a great presence with older individuals since they are able to sit in their stores and read at their convenience. The company's app is great if you want to gain points towards free drinks or learn more about the songs they have on their playlists throughout their stores.

* Be aware - Some Starbucks stores are located in shopping centers (i.e. Giant Food Stores), which typically don't offer the array of options you can usually get from a stand-alone store, and they don't have space for you to relax, get work done, etc.

Dunkin'

The pricing for (almost) every drink at Dunkin' is by far cheaper than Starbucks's options. It's great if you're looking for something convenient without the bells & whistles.

In my opinion, Dunkin' has a greater variety of food options that taste better, and are cheaper for a larger quantity. From donuts to sausage, egg, and cheese bagels, Dunkin' is the go-to for a quick pick me up before you get your day started. Even better, if you go after the usual hours, most of the employees at their locations will give you their donuts for half the price or for free since they need to get rid of their batches from that day.

The brand markets well to an older crowd who hopes to get coffee and food at an affordable rate. However, Dunkin' does well with other crowds when they promote their products during events such as Philadelphia Eagles Games - You can get any size coffee for $1 when the Eagles win that week. They also have their peel to win promotion where you can win coupons, prizes, and other giveaways when you purchase certain products on their menu (i.e. a large coffee).

Dunkin's app is great if you want to gain access to other promotions going on. For instance, if it's your birthday, you can go in your app to receive a coupon for a free drink. On holidays, they promote other sweet deals that are normally for a limited time.

* Be aware - Some Dunkin' stores are located in gas stations (i.e. Lukoil), which means there is no space for you to sit down if needed. Dunkin' doesn't have the same "welcoming" environment (in my opinion) like Starbucks. This doesn't mean that the employees aren't great at what they do; you typically don't sit for a few hours at a Dunkin ' to loiter.