Steve Stango opened his business in downtown San Angelo because there was a lack of coffee shops in the area. However, with the addition of a second Starbucks location Stango's Coffee Shop might be thrown into a battle for customers.
San Angelo resident Scott Jarmon said, “I generally try to support local businesses over corporations.”
But for Jarmon, the problem is finding local businesses that offer the same long hours and quality service as franchised businesses.
Stango's Coffee Shop doesn't open until 7:30 a.m Monday through Friday, whereas Starbucks opens at 5 a.m., seven days a week.
Jarmon said, ”The main things that Starbucks has that Stango's doesn't is a convenient location and fast service.” He added: ”I do meet friends for coffee occasionally, but normally I use the drive-through at Starbucks, something Stango's doesn't have.”
When asked how his business will be affected by the new Starbucks, Stango responded, “I think it's a whole different clientele. If anything, it could be better [for business]... when that's too busy they might turn in over here.”
Stango says his business offers more than just a good cup of coffee. It is about the atmosphere and environment as well.
“You come in here and you can have some fun; listening to the jukebox, playing an old arcade machine, or just looking around and seeing what an old coffee shop would have been like in the '40s or '50s,“ Stango said.
He explained how customers vary from season to season. With a military base and university in San Angelo, Stango's clientele is constantly evolving.
“We have lots of regulars and lots of newbies,” Stango said.
Jennifer Corder, a student at Angelo State said, “ I would choose the environment at Stango's over Starbucks.”
However, with that she also said,”When it comes to the products, I would pick Starbucks.”
Customers will now have to make a decision when going for coffee downtown. Will the deciding factor be the location or the product?
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