How the rejected names led to today's superstar brand
Although Pequod didn't make the final selection, the idea behind it set the founders on the right path to the name they ultimately chose—after a brief detour into cartography. Co-founder Gordon Bowker and his team were examining an old mining map of the Cascades and Mount Rainier, looking for something that represented the Seattle area (where the first Starbucks was established and still operates today), when they came across a mining town named 'Starbo.' This discovery reignited the connection to "Moby-Dick," as the name reminded Bowker of Melville's first mate, Starbuck.
The 's' at the end was added based on the assumption that, even if it wasn't officially part of the name, people would likely refer to it in the plural form—similar to how Aldi is often called Aldi's, Kroger is referred to as Kroger's, and JCPenney is known as JCPenney's. All of these names are officially singular, yet customers commonly add an 's.' The nautical theme continued with Starbucks' two-tailed mermaid logo, and just as the long-haired siren was said to entice sailors into the sea in Greek mythology, her green image has successfully drawn customers into Starbucks locations for over 50 years.
Recommended
The Origin Of Pavlova Is Just As Complicated As The Dessert
Why You'll Often See Red, Black And Green Colored Foods On The Table For Kwanzaa
The Oldest Known Beer Recipe Was Also An Ancient Hymn
The Rise And Fall Of Chi-Chi's: What Happened To The Popular Restaurant Chain?
Next up