A Lesson from a Napkin
A few months ago, during my daily walk along the Oyster Point trail in Brisbane, I stopped by Specialty’s Bakery—a favorite spot not only for its fresh pastries but also for Peet’s Coffee. Nestled among California’s biotech hubs, this shop offers a unique little treasure: “day-old” baked goods at 50% off.
Curious, I picked up a few items to enjoy and bring home —spending less than $10, coffee included. At the register, I asked Maria, the cashier, if the day-old pastries were still good. She smiled and handed me a napkin. Printed on it was the company’s mission statement, and she pointed to one line:
“We take pride in what isn’t in our food as much as what is…”
That simple phrase told me everything I needed to know. And yes, the pastries were just as good as promised.
After a few weeks, I stopped by again today. From a distance, Maria greeted me with a big smile and an invitation to try a new addition to the day-old selection. As I sat down to enjoy it, two young ladies, presumably employees from a nearby biotech firm—took a seat close by. They glanced at my tray and asked, almost amused, “Why buy the day-olds? No one else does.”
I asked why they thought that. With a touch of arrogance, one replied, “Because we can afford the fresh ones.”
I simply smiled, took out the napkin, and pointed to the same words Maria had shown me.
They exchanged glances, shrugged, and returned to their conversation. Meanwhile, I savored my pastry—knowing that some companies don’t just sell food; they stand by their values.
Not every business boldly prints its mission on a napkin. But when they do, and when they live by it, you can taste the difference.
