Now you've done it, Blockbuster
DVD rental giant Blockbuster
Yes, this is bad for Netflix. The last time it was trapped in a pricing war -- fearing that Amazon.com
However, let's not call this a victory for Blockbuster. The chain wouldn't be doing this if its Total Access program was a hit. As I feared, it seems as if too many subscribers would come in for their free rentals without spending any money at the store. So Blockbuster was subsidizing the studio revenue-sharing deals and shortchanging its brick-and-mortar customers of physical inventory. Or maybe they weren't coming in at all, which could actually be a more troubling sign for a company like Blockbuster that needs to keep traffic coming to its stores.
Blockbuster hasn't said as such, but why would they be trying to wean users off of Total Access after it has spent so much to market the convenience of in-store exchanges?
In short, it's a lose-lose-win situation. Netflix loses. Blockbuster loses. Movie fans like you and me? We're the ones that win, though I have to wonder how much longer we'll be able to feast like this before Blockbuster's creditors twist the screws.
Keeping down with the Jones
Say goodbye to picking up a Jones Soda
What a difference a year can make. Jones Soda got a boost last year, after Starbucks began stocking Jones Soda's diet black cherry pop, in addition to the root beer and cream soda that it has been making available in its coolers for years.
Without Starbucks as a distributor, Jones Soda will be hurt by the move, but it's also a testament to the company's growth. Its push into canned sodas at major retailers and supermarket chains demystifies the brand. Now that it is more readily available in so many places, original distribution points like Starbucks, Barnes & Noble
So I can see why Starbucks wants to move in a different direction, especially as it rolls out a wider food menu. I can also see why Jones Soda won't be looking back in anger as it trades one big partner for several more retailers.
Until next week, I remain,
Rick Munarriz
Netflix, Amazon.com, and Starbucks are Stock Advisor recommendations. Find out why with a free 30-day trial subscription
Longtime Fool contributor Rick Munarriz recommends windshield wiper fluid when trying to look back. He is also part of theRule Breakers newsletter research team, seeking out tomorrow's ultimate growth stocks a day early. He does not own shares in any of the companies in this story, save for Netflix. The Fool has a disclosure policy.