Starbucks is implementing a significant change to its recipes across the UK, switching to a new blend of coffee beans in a direct response to impending government legislation on sugar content.
Customer Backlash Over New Flavour
The hot drinks giant confirmed it is trialling the use of naturally sweeter coffee beans in an effort to encourage customers to cut down on the addition of high-calorie sugary syrups. This strategic shift comes as the new Labour Party government prepares to enforce a wider crackdown on sugary drinks and confectionery.
However, the move has sparked a fierce reaction from some patrons. On forums like Reddit, one customer bluntly stated, “It’s gross.” Another complained, “The new iced coffee sucks,” while a third posted, “It tastes nowhere near the same as the OG iced coffee. It just plain sucks.”
Broader Business Reshuffle and Store Closures
This ingredient change coincides with a broader portfolio review by the global coffee chain. Starbucks has announced plans to close a number of its company-operated stores in the UK, as well as in Switzerland and Austria.
In an official statement, the company clarified its position: “In Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), we have conducted a similar review of our company-operated store portfolio with the goal of ensuring that our stores are correctly located, generating appropriate levels of foot traffic and operating in the right formats.”
Despite these closures, the EMEA business remains committed to expansion, being on track to open 80 new stores in the UK and 150 across the wider region in this financial year.
A Divided Public Response
Reaction to the recipe change has not been universally negative. One social media user defended the initiative, commenting, “Of all Labour bs this one actually makes sense.” Another saw the commercial logic, typing, “Interesting initiative from Starbucks — those in-store screens seem like a smart way to encourage healthier choices ahead of the changes.”
This proactive step by Starbucks highlights the increasing pressure on food and beverage retailers to align with public health policies, even when it risks alienating a portion of their customer base accustomed to the original sweeter formulations.
