Starting November 7, Starbucks will no longer charge extra for nondairy milk options, giving customers more affordable ways to customize their favorite drinks. The policy change, announced on November 1, aligns with the launch of Starbucks’ holiday menu and includes popular nondairy options like soy, oat, almond, and coconut milk. The shift could save customers who typically pay extra for nondairy milk more than 10% on certain drinks, according to the company.
“Customization is at the heart of the Starbucks experience, and we’re thrilled to make this change,” said CEO Brian Niccol in a statement. “By removing the extra charge, we’re embracing all the ways customers enjoy their Starbucks.” As one of the most requested customizations, nondairy milk has grown in popularity, reflecting a broader shift toward plant-based options. Currently, swapping in nondairy milk is the second-most popular customization after adding an extra shot of espresso.
This move by Starbucks responds to consumer demand for more accessible options and aligns with the company’s sustainability goals. Reducing costs for nondairy choices also positions Starbucks competitively within the market, where other coffee chains have started offering similar options. The shift is expected to encourage even more customers to explore nondairy milk, which can appeal to both lactose-intolerant individuals and those seeking plant-based alternatives for health or environmental reasons.
For Starbucks, this is just the beginning of planned changes aimed at enhancing the overall experience. Niccol hinted at more updates, saying that the company is focused on making each Starbucks visit “worth it every time.”
As Starbucks adjusts its menu and pricing, it also prepares to discontinue its Oleato olive oil drinks, a recent addition, in early November. This decision, along with the change in nondairy milk pricing, reflects Starbucks’ evolving response to customer preferences and feedback.