Starbucks will remove 13 drinks from its menu starting March 4, as confirmed to ABC News. The decision is part of a broader restructuring effort led by CEO Brian Niccol, which aims to simplify operations and improve customer experience. The removed items are expected to be completely phased out by the end of September.
The company's initiative to "get back to Starbucks" focuses on delivering fewer but more popular items with excellence. By simplifying menus, Starbucks intends to speed up customer wait times and enhance service efficiency. The restructuring, announced by Niccol in January, will not affect baristas or in-store teams. Instead, it is designed to streamline operations at the corporate level, including the reduction of the corporate and support partner workforce.
"These items aren't commonly purchased, can be complex to make, or are similar to other beverages on the menu," – Starbucks
The drinks being removed include White Hot Chocolate, Chai Crème Frappuccino, Caramel Ribbon Crunch Crème Frappuccino, Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino, Chocolate Cookie Crumble Crème Frappuccino, and White Chocolate Crème Frappuccino. Starbucks encourages customers who enjoy these beverages to try alternatives like the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino or the Strawberry Frappuccino. The Java Chip Frappuccino and White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino are also being cut, with the Mocha Frappuccino suggested as an alternative. For fans of the Espresso Frappuccino and Caffè Vanilla Frappuccino, the Coffee Frappuccino is recommended. Additionally, customers can switch from the Iced Matcha Lemonade to the Green Tea Lemonade.
"This will make way for innovation, help reduce wait times, improve quality and consistency, and align with our core identity as a coffee company." – Starbucks
As part of the restructuring efforts, the company plans to eliminate 1,100 current support partner roles along with several hundred open positions. This move is aimed at aligning with Starbucks' core identity as a coffee company while paving the way for future innovations.
"This includes the hard decision to eliminate 1,100 current support partner roles and several hundred additional open and unfilled positions," – Brian Niccol
In addition to these changes, Starbucks will introduce new limited-edition spring menu items. Customers can look forward to the return of lavender beverages, alongside new offerings such as the Iced Cherry Chai and a Jalapeño Chicken Pocket.
