Interesting that you should post about this.  I was driving through my old neighborhood the other day and noticed that a Starbucks had gone in.  I wondered about your topic specifically.  I remember thinking, "Hmm, I guess the ole stomping grounds are hip and happening now!"  Good post!

Bob Mitchell

ValueList 

Do you think if a Starbucks goes up it's there to stay?  What about the reverse phenomenon...if an existing Starbucks goes, does it mean the neighborhood has lost its pizzazz?

Anne, outside the box thinking. I'm in a more rural area with only one Starbucks location. In a previous location, 7-Eleven was the indicator of the neighborhood. I guess Starbucks could be the latest.

Coming from the land of Starbucks, I wish they would all go away in actuality.   I think for inner city places where there are "cool" places to hang out, large brand names are not seen as all that hip.  But regardless, just a new Starbucks does not mean an area will be up and coming.  You have to look at what other aspects of our lives will be fullfilled by such a place.....for instance, here in Seattle whenever a really expensive, organic grocery store goes in, its all the hype.  The more money people are willing to spend in an area the more people will pay to get INTO that area.  Everyone wants to be near the action.

Tim,

I was hoping someone from Seatle will comment. Thanks for your input.

Organic retail is definitely on the hype meter.

Recently, a Starbucks sprung up in the Art and Design district in Toronto that has many proposed redevelopment and trendy soft lofts. Most buildings are historic but dilapidated. The area is full of alternative galleries and non-profit artists, and the media projects it to be the Manhattan Chelsea of tomorrow. Local veteran artists protested against Starbucks arrival, as that means their rent will go up and they will have to find alternative space to lease for their workshop. Property value has already gone up +/-15% for the past year.

Sounds as if you need to be investing in commercial property in that area.....all the places around me start at a minimum of 2.5 million....best of luck!

 ps....you might consider getting your certificate or license in selling business opportunities....could be a good start!