Coffee Quote by Howard Schultz
““Living in the same city as Microsoft, I’m only too aware that, even in low-technology businesses like coffee, the Next Big Thing could knock the dominant player into second place tomorrow. I keep pushing to make sure that Starbucks thinks of the Next Big Thing before it has even crossed anybody else’s mind. In fact, Don Valencia is working on it even as I’m writing this book.””
About This Quote
Even low‑tech sectors can be disrupted by innovative ideas, so incumbents must anticipate change before competitors do.
In simple terms: Every industry can be upended by the next big idea.
Key Takeaway
Proactive innovation prevents obsolescence.
Themes
disruption
innovation
strategy
competition
Mood
forward‑looking
strategic
Type
business
strategic
When to use this quote
- retail
- hospitality
- traditional media
- logistics
Key Concepts
first‑mover advantage
market foresight
Practical Applications
- establish internal R&D labs
- monitor emerging trends
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a mature company stay ahead of disruptive trends?
- What signals indicate an upcoming industry shift?
