Starbucks reveals official return date for Pumpkin Spice Latte
Summer isn't even over yet, but Starbucks thinks your brain belongs in autumn mode. The coffee giant has officially announced that the Pumpkin Spice Latte will return to menus on August 25, kicking off another season of pumpkin-flavored everything and orange-colored merch
Love it or roll your eyes at it, the PSL has become one of the biggest signs that fall has arrived. And Starbucks knows exactly what it is doing. The pumpkin takeover is back and here is all we know about it.
The PSL is bringing backup this year
The classic Pumpkin Spice Latte is not returning alone. Starbucks is expanding its fall menu with several pumpkin-inspired drinks, including the new Iced Pumpkin Cream Shaken Espresso, Pumpkin Spice Chai, and Iced Pumpkin Cream Matcha. Fan favorites are also coming back, including the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, and Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino.
Starbucks is also adding some non-pumpkin surprises. A new iced banana bread-flavored latte, a banana bread-inspired chai drink, and the Chaider, a chai and cider-inspired drink, will join the seasonal lineup.
Snacks and merch join the lineup
Beyond just drinks, Starbucks is introducing a new Chicken Bacon Protein Pocket as part of its push toward offering more protein-focused food options. The company is also adding a Hedgehog Cake Pop.
New drinkware and a hat are also being launched as part of the brand’s PSL Society collection, giving dedicated pumpkin fans a chance to announce their seasonal allegiance before September even begins.
The comeback arrives at a crucial moment for Starbucks
The Pumpkin Spice Latte announcement comes as Starbucks works to revive growth under CEO Brian Niccol. The company recently raised its annual sales and profit forecasts after reporting stronger demand. It all boils down to improvements from its turnaround strategy, which is focused on simplifying menus, reducing wait times, and improving the general customer experience.
The changes appear to be helping. Starbucks has reported four straight quarters of comparable sales growth, and the company expects global same-store sales growth of nearly 6%. Nevertheless, it still has challenges ahead, including cost pressures and changing consumer habits.
Source: Fox Business