SEATTLE — Quick Facts:
- Starbucks sold in bags at supermarkets will go up about $1
- Venti-sized coffee will cost $2.35
- Coffee prices rising, but company says competition also a factor
Some Starbucks coffee will get more expensive in the coming weeks.
A Venti-sized coffee that now ranges between $2.20 and $2.25 will go up to $2.35.
"I just can't see it having much impact on my purchasing habits," said Starbucks customer Heath Putnam.
When we posted about the price increase on social media Friday, people were far more upset.
One wrote: "Starbucks coffee prices are already too high!"
A company spokeswoman said a number of factors led to the increase, including "competitive dynamics."
Translation: Some competitors, like Dunkin' Donuts, have already raised prices.
We asked Spencer Turer of Coffee Analysts in Burlingon, Vermont. if others in the industry will now follow suit.
"Once they start raising prices it gives permission to all your local coffee companies, all your regional coffee companies to do the same," Turer said.
Wholesale coffee prices have risen because of supply problems in South America.
But Craig Holt of Atlas Coffee Importers, which sells beans to specialty roasters, doesn't think his clients will now charge people more.
"I don't think everybody is going to look at Starbucks and say, 'They raised prices, the cost of a latte is going up 50 cents,'" Holt said.
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