Starbucks Tests Frappuccino’s Against Hugs in One-of-a-Kind Social Experiment

In a one-of-a-kind seriously fun social experiment dubbed 'The Comfort Index', Starbucks Frappuccino drink was measured against tried-and-true comforting activities.

Who doesn’t want a little more comfort these days? In fact, nearly a quarter of US adults say their stress is overwhelming [1]. An ever-evolving world has shaped the way people live, work, and sip, causing them to seek comfort and self-care with simple things or little treats to boost their moods.

One of these treats that customers point to? Starbucks Frappuccino drink. To prove just how comforting a sip of this bottled goodness can be, Starbucks created The Comfort Index – a light hearted social experiment that measured emotional reactions to a few universally loved activities. As if you needed another reason to enjoy this delicious drink.

Starbucks invited three people to participate in The Comfort Index by trying four comforting activities: petting a pony, popping bubble wrap, hugging a loved one and, of course, drinking a Starbucks Frappuccino drink.

Each participant was given a headset that measured their brain activity linked to excitement, relaxation and focus. Then our technologists turned those brainwaves into individual Comfort Index profiles to finally reveal which activities hit the comfort jackpot.   

How did Starbucks Frappuccino drink fare against the competition? It ranked second, right behind hugging a loved one (no one can compete with hugs, folks!).

“The Comfort Index was created to distinctly show just how comforting Starbucks Frappuccino drink really is, and while we know that nothing can surpass the comfort of a hug from a loved one, we’ll happily own second place as the most comforting experiment we tested. These results may be surprising to some, but hey – those who know, know,” said Brian Smith, director, marketing at Starbucks.