Starbucks Outlasted New England’s Pewter Pot, Which Peaked at 40 Locations
In the 1980s, Starbucks was not a major New England rival to Dunkin’ Donuts, competing instead with local chains like Pewter Pot, which peaked at 40 locations before closing in the 1990s. Only one Mug ’N Muffin outlet from that era remains open after 42 years.
1. Early New England Competition
In the 1980s, Starbucks had minimal presence in New England, with regional chains Pewter Pot and Mug ’N Muffin dominating local coffee and muffin markets through colonial-inspired décor and community gathering spots.
2. Rise and Fall of Pewter Pot
Founded in 1963, Pewter Pot expanded to 40 locations across Boston, Cambridge and surrounding towns by the early 1970s but shuttered all outlets in the 1990s after decades of declining foot traffic.
3. Mug ’N Muffin's Single Survivor
Mug ’N Muffin grew alongside Pewter Pot but has since contracted to a solitary Norwood, Massachusetts location that has operated continuously for 42 years, preserving its Americana atmosphere.
4. Impact on Starbucks Expansion
With both Pewter Pot and Mug ’N Muffin outlasting one another, Starbucks capitalized on the void left by those defunct regional players, accelerating its footprint across New England.