@Seelix yes, those are the kind I am talking about. We are in the process of looking for new dinnerware and I just keep wondering WTH I’m going to do with all of those mugs! Buying place settings by piece and leaving out the mugs is actually more expensive, though.
I wonder if people would buy the sets as they are now packaged or opt for sets without mugs for a lower price if given the choice? I would buy one set with mugs and the other one or two without. I would like to have some matching mugs, but I definitely need more plates and bowls than mugs.
@jca There are obviously a number of people who do use them the way you suggested; however, those mugs never make it onto my table or they table of anyone I know even when we are setting it to be all nice and matchy-matchy. We serve cold drinks in glasses for everyday, water goblets for special occasions. The mugs come out after dinner for the few people who want coffee.
I see the visual appeal of including the mugs, and I do think they are part of the traditional full place setting. I tend to associate that more with formal situations than casual dining, although all types of restaurants usually include mugs in their settings.
I’m sure @Jeruba‘s reasoning is on track as well. Marketing is everything.