Ken G

Whole Foods in a Whole Lot of Trouble

I can understand why whole foods may struggle with the current economy right now, but it is a great buy at 10 per share. It may take a year for it to truly go up, but no other national and natural grocer exists on a level with whole foods. Trader Joes is only out East, Fresh Market is much smaller and lacks a lot of what whole foods carries (no supplements etc.), and Wild Oats is now part of whole foods. Whole foods is run expertly and has a great reputation. In response to the last comment, of course not everything at WF is good for you. It's up to the consumer to figure that out. WF gives a hell of lot more healthy options that most though.

Starbucks: Two Years of Missteps and an Overdue Admission

I totally agree with Jeff. Yes, Starbucks will have difficulty in this economy, as the majority of merchants and retailers will. However, you cannot find better espresso, cappucino, lattes, or coffee anywhere else. I have tried local places and their espresso does not compare. More importantly starbucks trains their staff to function like a well oiled machine taking very complicated drink orders. Mcdonalds and Dunkin Donuts either give you tons of cream and sugar or none at all. I used to think Starbucks was a big evil corporation, but since reading Shultz's book they are one of the few companies out there with a social conscience.