[anexprogrammer]

My experience too.

To add to that, the bakery I'd like to buy my bread and cakes from is the one that probably closes due to no branding. In fact it probably looks like a holdover from the fifties inside and specialised in just being a shop, not a brand.

It's a little sad to me that brands have become so much more powerful than the product, though I'm not immune either. I do try though - I'll risk the bad experience and try the family cafe or unknown coffeeshop in preference to a starbucks or costa. Does mean I get something rubbish occasionally.

Ironic that Starbucks such are a huge success but make terribly bland coffee. I've several friends who collect their mugs, but will never drink their coffee!