I Called Dunkin’ ‘Working Class’ on the Radio – Am I Wrong?

During our radio show on Monday morning, we were talking about the new Starbucks that is opening soon in Lenox and I said that Dunkin' is more "working class" than Starbucks. I prefer Dunkin', because I'm working class and that's who I care about. (Remember that line from Dan Ackroyd 'Tommy Boy')?

This is not to say I don't patronize Berkshire Starbucks locations - because I certainly have.

Let's talk prices first. A medium coffee at Dunkin' generally runs you about $2.50. At Starbucks? A grande is pushing $3.25. It's not a massive difference, and product prices can vary.

The Ben Affleck Vibe

But it's not just about the money - it's the whole vibe. Dunkin' is built for speed. You roll through the drive-thru, order a "large iced, shot of espresso and a splash of milk," and you're back on the road in 90 seconds. You're not crafting an experience. You're getting caffeinated and getting on with your day.

And we all remember the Casey Affleck SNL Christmas skit when he is smoking a cigarette with one hand out the door - you would never see that in a Starbucks skit, because it's not based in TRUTH!

Boujee vibe

Starbucks? That's where you customize a venti iced caramel macchiato with oat milk, extra foam, and light ice. You're taking a photo for Instagram. Maybe you're setting up your laptop for three hours. It's a whole production.

And here in New England? Dunkin' isn't just coffee - it's an identity. It's the construction worker at 5am, the nurse coming off overnight shift, the guy calls it "Dunks", brotha.

I'm not saying one is better than the other. But there's definitely a cultural difference between "America Runs on Dunkin'" and paying seven bucks for a seasonal latte.