gg2
Starbucks news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Starbucks launches fall menu Aug. 25 with new iced chaider and returning pumpkin spice latte. The chain also cuts 224 Seattle HQ jobs amid CEO Brian Niccol's turnaround.
Background
Starbucks is rolling out its 2026 fall menu, including the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte for its 23rd season and new drinks like the iced chaider. At the same time, the company is executing a restructuring plan announced in May under CEO Brian Niccol, which includes layoffs at its Seattle headquarters as part of a broader effort to improve the coffeehouse experience.
How it unfolded
- May 2026Starbucks announced restructuring plans to reduce corporate workforce by about 300 jobs.
- Aug 19, 2026Competitor Dunkin launched its fall menu earlier than Starbucks.
- Aug 20, 2026Starbucks filed a WARN notice detailing 224 layoffs at Seattle HQ, with first separations expected Oct. 19 and completion by Nov. 1.
- Aug 24, 2026Starbucks announced fall menu details, including new iced chaider and returning pumpkin spice latte, set to launch Aug. 25.
- Aug 25, 2026Starbucks fall menu launches nationwide, including the Pumpkin Spice Latte and new items.
Who’s saying what
- Company
- Starbucks says the layoffs are part of previously announced restructuring and not a new round, and it remains committed to its 'third place experience'.
- Experts
- Economics experts note the workforce reduction stems from two groups: support roles and employees who declined relocation to Nashville.
- Local Businesses
- Nearby Seattle businesses worry the job losses could reduce local foot traffic.