There are news circulating about Starbucks misleading its customers about the price of their coffee. Britons are reported to complain about a 20 pence price hike after being offered Guatemalan beans by staff at the said coffee shop.
As reported in Independent UK, though many have complained about the misleading behaviours of Starbucks staff, some have claimed that they were told about the extra cost before they reach the cashier to pay. In light with what happened, the company is being urged to be more upfront with the price changes of their coffee.
As accounted in the report, James Hall, a 41 year-old freelance writer from London stopped by a branch of Starbucks in High Street Kensington last October 16. In an interview with Independent UK, he was reported saying:
"I ordered a flat white and the lady behind the counter pointed to this little bowl of beans on the counter and asked if I'd like them, so I said yes. Then I came to pay and gave the exact change - £2.60 - but was told I was 20 pence short. They told me the beans were 20p more and I said 'you didn't tell me that,' It was sneaky, I felt. Surely they should make it clear?" Addressing the news site, he added, "I wouldn't go back there in a hurry, let's put it that way."
Furthermore, in recent weeks, many unhappy customers have expressed their disappointment through their social media accounts. Olivia Farr who's from Leeds was said to post the following on twitter:
"Dear Starbucks, Nobody wants the Guatemala coffee. Stop trying to con us into paying an extra 20p."
Another one also took their frustration to twitter which was seen commenting the following:
"Starbucks has scammed me by convincing me to try these Guatemalan coffee beans for an extra 20p."
Meanwhile, Matt Wall, an office worker from Richmond London has a different experience. He was reported saying the following:
"They said to me 'would you like to pay 20 pence extra for the Guatemalan coffee bean?' and I questioned them as to the credentials and they said it's not Fairtrade but their standard coffee is, so I decided to keep my ethics and my 20 pence," he said.
A spokesperson for Starbucks has released the following statements in lieu of the allegations:
"In 2013 we launched a range of limited edition, Starbucks single Origin Espresso coffees, allowing customers to try something different in their usual coffee. The price difference is clearly displayed on store menu boards."
Meanwhile, Starbucks may just be giving its customers more options however, they should in fact inform customers of any price changes that comes with it.
