It's National Coffee Day; Drink Up

Today is National Coffee Day (though most probably believe that day is every day). So how does Starbucks celebrate it? With a free cup of java? Nope. They launched their instant coffee today.

Seriously, though, it's nearly eight months after Starbucks began selling its Via instant coffee in Seattle and Chicago. On National Coffee Day, the company will begin offering it to nationally as well as in its Canadian stores.

Realistically, Starbucks is facing much competition as people turn to cheaper brews in this time of recession. After all, the name Starbucks, which used to draw people in for more price beverages, isn't enough when companies like McDonald's have their own coffee, which, to be honest, is quite good.

While Starbucks has seen its revenue slide for the last three consecutive quarters, McDonald's has even started serving espresso, cappuccino, and other drinks. Dunkin' Donuts has its fans as well. Starbucks may see 2009's National Coffee Day as a chance to intensify the battle.

In terms of National Coffee Day freebies, here are a few we know of:

• At Panera Bread, buy any size of drip coffee, say “Pay it Forward” and you get a second cup for free to give to a friend.

• Even better, in New England, McDonald's has been leading up to National Coffee Day by giving away free cups of their new regional coffee, Newman's Own Organics, for the last month. This will continue through the end of the month, and Nell Newman, president of Newman’s Own Organics: The Second Generation and daughter of late actor Paul Newman and actress Joanne Woodward will visit a restaurant in South Attleboro at 444 Washington St.

There are likely to be many local offers as well. Do any of you readers know of any? At any rate, drink up!