Starbucks Ditches Fan-Faves for New Classics — Here’s What You’ll Miss and What’s Coming

Brace yourself, Starbucks enthusiasts! Starting March 4, the coffee giant is initiating a significant shake-up of its menu that’s set to send some beloved beverages packing. In a not-so-sweet announcement, the chain revealed it will be cutting over ten drinks, many of which have been staples for years. So why the sudden axe? CEO Brian Niccol made it pretty clear during a recent earnings call: they’re looking to streamline the menu and shake things up for more innovative offerings. Out with the old, in with the bold, right?

So, which drinks are on the chopping block? Say goodbye to the Iced Matcha Lemonade, the Java Chip Frappuccino, and the always decadent White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino, among others. According to Starbucks, these drinks aren’t exactly gold medalists in sales; they’re either too complex to make or just plain redundant with other sips already on the menu. Niccol mentioned that their goal is a roughly 30% menu reduction to truly hone in on their coffee roots — something they claim will make it easier to understand Starbucks as a coffee company, not just a sugary haven.

But fear not, loyal coffee aficionados! While we’re mourning the loss of these classic drinks, there’s also a silver lining on the horizon with the introduction of some colorful new concoctions. Get ready for the Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha and the refreshing Iced Cherry Chai! And if you’re craving something savory, look for the Jalapeño Chicken Pocket at select locations. Yum!

Not to mention the buzzing espresso addition of the Starbucks Cortado, which features those dreamy ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso — a move that echoes the current trend favoring bolder, richer flavors in coffee. Plus, this isn’t Starbucks’ first dance with change; they’ve recently returned free refills for in-store customers, reintroduced a condiments bar, and, let’s not forget, made customers purchase before using the restrooms. Yes, thank you, corporate coffee world!

At the end of the day, this move isn’t just about cutting out the fluff; it’s about curating a beverage experience that aligns with their identity while aiming to fuel creativity. Who knows, while we might occasionally miss our beloved Frappuccinos, maybe those new drinks will be worth the change.

Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, CNN Business, Starbucks Newsroom