4 ms·

While I agree with the basic premise of the article (disparaging low-quality goods attached to premium brands), I take exception to two of the examples: Starbuc

by Zanni 8y ago

While I agree with the basic premise of the article (disparaging low-quality goods attached to premium brands), I take exception to two of the examples: Starbucks and premium economy airline seats. I regularly upgrade to premium economy when I fly for the very real benefits of 1) earlier boarding, ensuring convenient overhead access to my carry-on luggage and 2) extra legroom; I find it's impossible to open and use a laptop with today's shallow seat pitch configurations unless you upgrade. As for Starbucks, I'm paying a premium (but not much, as a tea drinker) for the amenities: air-conditioning, clean bathrooms, quality furniture. Too many local coffee shops lack these basics.

ghaff 8y ago
Economy Plus seating seems a lot more utilitarian. Also Acela on the Amtrak. There's a market for things that give a bit more convenience and comfort relative to what those buying solely on price are getting. While not providing a product that's significantly higher cost and price--especially to the point where paying for it becomes an issue even for many business travelers.
- around_here 8y ago
  The issue here is that they're cutting away from what was actually the standard before in order to create something "premium". What used to be "economy" is now "premium economy" with a price hike, and now "economy" is something that was made deliberately worse.
  - Zanni 8y ago
    That's an issue, true. And it's a frustrating state of affairs. But it's not in keeping with the theme of the article. I think the author is hinting at the idea that "premium" economy is an oxymoron, like jumbo shrimp, and that people who pay for it are being suckered into paying for pseudo-prestige because of the "premium" label. But unlike the other examples they cite, premium economy is actually better.
    - around_here 8y ago
      I mean, not really? When is the last time you ever gave a shit about "premium" beer? That's literally on every beer out there.

by Zanni 8y ago

ghaff 8y ago

Economy Plus seating seems a lot more utilitarian. Also Acela on the Amtrak. There's a market for things that give a bit more convenience and comfort relative to what those buying solely on price are getting. While not providing a product that's significantly higher cost and price--especially to the point where paying for it becomes an issue even for many business travelers.

around_here 8y ago
The issue here is that they're cutting away from what was actually the standard before in order to create something "premium". What used to be "economy" is now "premium economy" with a price hike, and now "economy" is something that was made deliberately worse.
- Zanni 8y ago
  That's an issue, true. And it's a frustrating state of affairs. But it's not in keeping with the theme of the article. I think the author is hinting at the idea that "premium" economy is an oxymoron, like jumbo shrimp, and that people who pay for it are being suckered into paying for pseudo-prestige because of the "premium" label. But unlike the other examples they cite, premium economy is actually better.
  - around_here 8y ago
    I mean, not really? When is the last time you ever gave a shit about "premium" beer? That's literally on every beer out there.