Rivals Earn as Starbucks Learns

Starbucks customers and competition alike got to know each other yesterday as the java giant closed for a 3-hour training break for all employee, reports the AP. "Free-market economy, baby! You've got to take advantage of what the competition throws at you," said one former Starbucks devotee swilling a competitor's discounted joe.

Starbucks, reeling from sliding stocks, say the training will ensure its coffee lives up to the new promise posted in every store: "Your drink should be perfect, every time." That's all well and good, but Dunkin' Donuts slashed coffee prices to 99 cents, proclaiming "no coffee lover (should be) denied a delicious espresso-based beverage," and one Seattle chain handed out free espressos to hordes. (Read more Starbucks stories.)