The billion-dollar franchise of Starbucks is now threatening to undermine a major lifeline of Brooklyn's small businesses. Selling beer, wine, and liquor is one of the few ways that local restaurants, bars, delis, and coffeehouses can make ends meet in New York City. The City gives corporate franchises tax and financial breaks while small businesses struggle to stay afloat.Small businesses pay employees better and they pay higher taxes. They also use local resources to run their shops, thereby contributing to the community and sustaining the local economy.