Starbucks, one of the world’s most popular coffee chains, has been making some significant changes that could affect how you experience your next cup of coffee. Under the leadership of new CEO Brian Niccol, who took charge in September, Starbucks has been rolling out a series of behind-the-scenes changes that could surprise you. From the name change to menu adjustments, let’s take a look at what’s new — and what you might miss.

A Bold New Name

You might have missed it, but Starbucks has actually changed its name! While the company is still legally known as Starbucks Corporation, its public-facing name has shifted to The Starbucks Coffee Company. You may have seen this change on advertisements, their website, or even within the app.

In a statement, Niccol explained the shift, saying, “Through product development, marketing, and in-store experience, we need to remind everyone that we are, and always have been, Starbucks Coffee Company.” This subtle yet bold change signals a return to their roots as a coffeehouse, emphasizing their commitment to high-quality coffee and the community that comes with it.

Goodbye to Extra Charges for Non-Dairy Milk

For those who follow a plant-based or dairy-free diet, this change will likely be a welcome surprise. Starbucks has made a customer-friendly decision to stop charging extra for non-dairy milk options, such as almond, oat, and soy milk. This shift shows the company’s efforts to cater to more dietary preferences without penalizing those who prefer alternatives to cow’s milk.

Cutting Down on Menu Offerings

Not all changes will be embraced by every customer, however. Starbucks has decided to trim down its menu by eliminating 30% of its offerings. The goal is to “clear the noise” and make space for new, exciting items that might catch your attention. While this means saying goodbye to some familiar choices, the company assures customers that it’s all in an effort to bring better innovation and focus on what truly works.

CEO Brian Niccol commented on this, saying: “We’re relying less on discounts to drive customer traffic and doing more to demonstrate our value.” So, while you might have to bid farewell to some items, there’s hope that the menu will be streamlined with even better options in the future.

New Perks for In-House Customers

Starbucks isn’t just adjusting its menu and name; it’s also revamping its in-store experience to make the coffeehouse a more inviting place for customers who prefer to hang out or work while sipping their brew. The company plans to reintroduce the coffee condiment bar, bringing back a feature that many regulars loved.

Additionally, for those who prefer to dine in, Starbucks will now offer ceramic mugs for customers enjoying their drinks in-house, creating a more sustainable and cozy experience. And here’s a bonus: if you like to stick around, Starbucks is now offering free refills of hot brewed coffee, iced coffee, hot tea, and iced tea during your visit. So, if you need a second (or third!) cup to get through your work session, it’s on the house!

Working at Starbucks Just Got Better

For those who love to spend hours working at Starbucks with their laptop and a cup of coffee, the new changes could be a big perk. The addition of free refills and the return of ceramic mugs gives you more incentive to work from your favorite coffee shop. Plus, with the improved in-store experience and reduced menu clutter, your time at Starbucks may feel even more enjoyable.

A New Direction, But Old Favorites

While the new changes at Starbucks may take some getting used to, they’re all designed to make your coffee experience more comfortable, innovative, and sustainable. From the name change to the menu adjustments and the redefined in-store experience, Starbucks is working hard to remain relevant and cater to customer needs. Whether you love or miss some of the old ways, one thing is for sure: the coffee giant isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

As the company continues to grow, there are sure to be more updates on the horizon. So, next time you visit Starbucks, keep an eye out for the subtle changes. You might just find a new favorite feature or drink along the way!