I prefer to have lounge access when I'm flying and will make airline decisions based on that, but having been in some of the best and worst lounges in the world, the difference isn't enough to drive me to book one airline versus another, unless I am going to have a long layover where I want to take a shower, etc.

If the United Clubs gave GS one premium beverage at the bar, that would be 80% of what I'd get out of a PL visit.