Interesting. According to a Wall Street Journal article, when a Starbucks opens near an independent coffeehouse business actually thrives for both stores. One reason is that indie coffeehouse owners start to improve their shops when they hear a Starbucks is opening nearby, roasting their own beans and improving customer service and such. Coffeehouses are also unique in retailing cause they don\’t favor chains. So now you don\’t have to feel bad about patronizing Starbucks.