Houston-based local coffee shop Bean Here Coffee and café giant Starbucks have been involved in an alleged dispute and the bone of contention between the two eateries is a sign board. As understood from an Instagram post from December 6, 2024, by the local coffee business, the two eateries are located beside each other.
The Instagram post, containing video footage, showed the Starbucks manager entering Bean Here Coffee with the latter’s sign board. The manager allegedly removed the board containing the coffee shop’s seasonal drinks. Although the board was displayed on Bean Here’s property, the coffee giant’s manager removed it to reportedly protect their holiday menu.
Delish reported on the incident on December 16, 2024, with a statement by Mike Ouano, the coffee shop’s representative. The Starbucks manager allegedly told the local business that even if they placed the sign again, it would be removed by Starbucks. According to Ouano,
“I don't expect an apology from Starbucks, they seemed to want to reach out to news outlets more than just coming in here to talk it through, which they could easily have done just as they did when they walked in here to bring our sign back, along with the harassing tone and warning.”
The video has gone viral and netizens have come in support of Bean Here Coffee. Many Instagram users have even suggested calling 911 as they claimed that the incident was a case of ‘bullying.’ Social media users criticized the coffee giant for its employee’s behavior while others showed solidarity for Bean Here.
Bean Here Coffee thanked its supporters after the fallout with Starbucks
While speaking to Delish, Ouano said he was disappointed with the Starbucks manager's behavior but acknowledged that the manager was following instructions, which is why his face was blurred in the video, as seen on Instagram. Amidst all the drama, Bean Here Coffee also shared a gratitude post on the social media platform on December 9, 2024.
The local business thanked everyone for the overwhelming support, describing it as emotional and humbling to witness so many people showing up and sharing their encouragement. The post read:
“I'd also like to thank my wonderful Baristas and colleagues for their incredible work keeping up with the amount of traffic that we haven't experienced before, all with genuine smiles and still providing great guest experiences in the midst of it, their flexibility to adjust schedules, and, to most the last few days, pulling doubles to help ease the load... Incredible stuff!”
Bean Here Coffee also wrote that while they couldn’t respond individually to every comment or message of support, the appreciation from their community held a special place for them. The team, including the person managing the bar, expressed deep gratitude to everyone for their kindness and encouragement.
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Bean Here Coffee has three outlets in Sienna, Arcola, and Lake Olympia. The outlet in Sienna has indoor and patio seating while that in Arcola comes with additional kitchen and studio space rental options. The Lake Olympia has a drive-thru convenience.
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