Flexing Your Entertainment Budget
If your budget contains a little wiggle room for food and entertainment, now may be a good time to revisit where you’re spending. This week brought reports on changing policies and offerings in some of America’s biggest-name chains. Here’s a look at what those changes are and how they might affect your financial situation.
More Bucks for Fancy Starbucks Drinks
A report from msnbc.com notes that Starbucks has raised the prices on its “fancy” drinks. Many stores have apparently made these specific changes:
- Extra espresso shots will be 70 cents (up form 55);
- Syrup shots will be 40 cents (up from 30); BUT
- Regular coffee drinks will be about 10 cents cheaper.
The verdict? Gourmet coffee is still a budget-buster if you’re indulging on a daily basis, no matter how simple your order. Treat it like a luxury if you’re watching the dollars.
Struggling Chains Facing a Tough 2010
This Forbes.com story highlights some big U.S. chains that have been struggling to stay afloat lately and may see significant closures in the coming months.
Stores reportedly in financial difficulty of varying levels include:
- Circuit City
- KB Toys
- Blockbuster
- Borders
- Zales Corp
Many of these companies face tough competition from online retailers like Amazon and NexFlix or have seen lower-cost, high-convenience alternatives (like RedBox movie renters) edge them out. As consumers, we’re likely already saving money thanks to online business models.
Eco-Friendlier Fish at Target
This Associated Press article notes that Target stores will begin phasing out their farmed salmon and carrying only the wild-caught version. The move, the company reports, is intended to lessen Target’s environmental impact.
The article doesn’t note what effect (if any) the decision might have on in-store prices, but the bold step seems like one in the right direction.
Booze at Burger King
Last but not least, here’s an Associated Press story that reports Burger King will begin serving beer at “select locations” in 2010, beginning with its Miami Beach restaurant. So how much would a burger, fries and a bottle of beer set you back? A reasonable $7.99, according to sources.
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