If given the choice of a large chain store or a locally owned coffee place I try to support the local folks. I often hear (when charities are asking for donations) just think of the price you pay for coffee and donate that to us..I guess people pay $5 for a cup ?? I make a pot at home and take a thermos of it with me when I go somewhere, if I think I am going to be needing a drink of coffee. I get beans in bulk 2-5 # bags so usually do not buy it by the cup. with all the cups and pots and gallons of coffee being made in the world every day, how can there be enough beans (and enough land to grow them) to go around?!