One of McDonald’s more recent national campaigns touts the idea that “McCafe makes a better day “possible.” McDonald’s admitted that its “coffee push is its biggest menu initiative since it began offering breakfast in the 1970s” (Jargon, 2009). Starbucks fought back equally as hard, running newspaper advertisements telling customers to be cautious about trading down to cheaper coffee. “If your coffee isn’t perfect, we’ll make it over. If it’s still not perfect make sure you’re in a Starbucks” (Jargon, 2009).
Dunkin’ Donuts is fighting hard to stay in the game as well. The week after Starbucks offered a hot-coffee giveaway campaign, Dunkin’ Donuts gave away 16-ounce iced coffee drinks to celebrate the first day of Spring. Dunkin’ Donuts is clearly trying to move past the association customers have with doughnuts rather than coffee. As a result, they’ve introduced an aggressive campaign to promote its new espresso line offered by TV’s Rachel Ray, and has launched its new slogan “America Runs on Dunkin’” (Associated Press, 2007).