Dunkin’ Donuts is reportedly looking to open four drive-thru locations at Chicago-area sites where Starbucks once planned to open stores, according to Crain’s Chicago Business. Starbucks expansion plans were scaled back and the company announced in July that about 600 outlets, including 18 stores in the Chicago area, would be closed.
RedEye smells a face-off brewing between the two coffee giants.
Talking shop
Dunkin’ Donuts
More than 7,900 worldwide
(checkmark) Starbucks
More than 15,000 worldwide
Edge: Starbucks simply is the world dominator in number of coffee shops.
Money maker
Dunkin’ Donuts
More $5.3 billion in sales in 2007.
(checkmark) Starbucks
$9.4 billion in revenues in 2007.
Edge: Money matters and Starbucks has got more of it.
Yummy treats
(checkmark) Dunkin’ Donuts
Munchkins, doughnuts, bagels and sandwiches.
(checkmark) Starbucks
Cookies, muffins, sandwiches, salads and even packaged fruit and cheese plates.
Edge: It depends on what you’re craving. Some days you might want to indulge in a Boston creme doughnut, while the next day you want something lighter.
Snappy slogans
(checkmark) Dunkin’ Donuts
“America Runs on Dunkin’.” And Rachael Ray is part of its campaign.
Starbucks
The cult following was built mostly without traditional advertising.
Edge: Dunkin’ Donuts has a catchphrase plus a famous face.
