The soy milk in coffee issue is one retailers should understand.
Most people who use soy milk in their coffee or use lactose free milk do so because they are lactose intolerant. Nearly all Asians and Jews are lactose intolerant.
We get an upset stomach from lactose in milk, if
we drink enough. In San Francisco 55% of adults are lactose
intolerant, in California 45%. That, however, is not the main
population that goes to white people's coffee shops.
I've watched for 15 years as more and more coffee shops have soy milk available. I also see it spreading around the U.S. as coffee shops spread.
I only mention this for all you retailers. What started as a tiny group of people asking for special treatment is now a group of customers who won't return if you ignore their needs. This is retailing. Notice customer preferences early and respond to them. It can often be a trend.
Most people who use soy milk in their coffee or use lactose free milk do so because they are lactose intolerant. Nearly all Asians and Jews are lactose intolerant.
I've watched for 15 years as more and more coffee shops have soy milk available. I also see it spreading around the U.S. as coffee shops spread.
I only mention this for all you retailers. What started as a tiny group of people asking for special treatment is now a group of customers who won't return if you ignore their needs. This is retailing. Notice customer preferences early and respond to them. It can often be a trend.