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The prototype Starbucks in Seattle (Photo courtesy Seattlest)
At the "Starbucks of the future," things could be less "Tommorowland" and more old-school cafe. The multi-national chain has just opened a prototype location in its base city Seattle that could change the face of your neighborhood 'bucks in the coming years, according to USA Today.It's not just $4 Skinny Sugar-Free Vanilla Lattes that the coffee chain will be pouring at this newly-remodeled Seattle location, but also regional beer and wine, and "an expansive plate of locally made cheeses — served on china."
Want to linger over your low-fat muffin? Take a seat up close at the barista bar on "green" salvaged chairs and drink in the decor with your bigger, more involved (and more expensive, natch) coffee bev. The re-decor is focused on muted colors, and meant to look like a neighborhood haunt that's been around for years; in the evening, alcohol appears on the menu to counterbalance the caffeine crush of the morning hours.
The chain is turning 40 next year, and, like the proverbial balding man with his new sports car, Starbucks is thinking of how they can "improve the way that its customers — and its stockholders — respond to the brand." When will you be able to buy a bottle of red at your favorite 'bucks? If the prototype Seattle location is a hit, it might be awhile to roll out the costly renovations to the chain's many global locations.
