chain stores and regional identity

[John Thornton]

I don't find any difference in the products offered by Tim Hortons, Dunkin 
Donuts, or Krispy Kreme. A strawberry jelly filled from one is virtually 
indistinguishable from another. No regional identity could be found in 
preferring one identical 'product of mass culture' over another. Why 
regional preferences exist for branding is a different question. There are 
regional differences in products but Krispy Kreme vs. Dunkin Donuts is not 
an example.
Piggly Wiggly is primarily southeastern except for Wisconsin.
I should imagine that anyone over the age of 30 would remember that 
regional difference were greater in the past than they are today. While 
North American culture is not 100% homogenous from North to South and East 
to West I can't imagine anyone seriously doubts the continent is becoming 
more so.

John Thornton


>Jeet Heer wrote:
>
>
>frequently have a strong regional identity. Thus Krisy Kreme is popular in
>the South, Dunkin Donut in the North Eastern United States and Tim Hortons
>in English Canada.
>
>1) Do you think it is true that ordinary people often find regional identity
>in the products of mass culture? If so, do you think Krispy Kreme in the
>south counts as a good example?
>
>2) Aside from Krispy Kreme, can you think of any other chain store or
>franchise that has a strong regional identity in the South?
>
>3) Do you think that the persistent of regional identity through consumer
>products and chain stores challenges the idea that culture in North America
>is becoming more homogenious?