Dunkin’ has just delivered a delightful news for customers who love plant-based beverages. Shaking up its menu pricing in a significant way, the popular coffee and donut chain announced that it is removing its nondairy milk fees across all locations. That’s right, fans will soon be able to enjoy their favorite nondairy drinks at Dunkin’ without the added cost, translating to a savings of up to $2 per drink.
Dunkin’s Nondairy Milk Charges to Be Removed in March
Dunkin’ fans are in for a treat this March! Starting March 5th, the donut and coffee chain will eliminate extra charges for dairy alternatives, allowing customers to add oat, almond, or coconut milk to any beverage at no additional cost.
A company spokesperson confirmed the change to PEOPLE, stating, “This enhances Dunkin’s ability to offer guests a wide range of beverage customizations, allowing them to enjoy quality Dunkin’ beverages—their way—at a great value.”
Currently, Dunkin’ applies an upcharge of up to $2 for nondairy milk, depending on the location. In New York City, the fee is $0.75, while in Chicago, the Dunkin’ app lists the surcharge at $1.
Why Is Dunkin’ Eliminating Extra Fees for Nondairy Drinks?
The spokesperson for Dunkin’ shared that the change was “guided” by customer feedback, but the decision likely goes beyond goodwill. Starbucks made the same move in November, stating at the time, “we’re embracing all the ways our customers enjoy their Starbucks.”
Starbucks also highlighted the high demand for nondairy alternatives, stating in a press release that customizing drinks with soy, oat, almond, or coconut milk is the second most popular personalization among customers—second only to adding a shot of espresso.
Other major coffee chains, including Dutch Bros, Tim Hortons, and Scooter’s Coffee, have also removed extra charges for plant-based milk, according to Bloomberg. The advocacy group No Milk Tax, which campaigns for coffee chains to eliminate nondairy milk fees, reports that brands like Panera Bread, Blue Bottle Coffee, and Stumptown Coffee Roasters have also made the change.
“As more major coffee chains eliminate the surcharge, it’s clear that smart brands recognize the long-term value of making non-dairy options more accessible rather than penalizing consumers for choosing them,” Jamie Berger, vice president of communications at Center for Responsible Food Business, told Bloomberg.
However, some companies have yet to follow suit—Peet’s Coffee, The Human Bean, and Bluestone Lane remain on No Milk Tax’s “Latte Losers” list for continuing to charge extra for dairy-free alternatives.
Beyond being a smart business move, eliminating the surcharge also helps Dunkin’ avoid potential legal challenges. Last year, the company faced a $5 million lawsuit from 10 plaintiffs who argued that charging for nondairy milk discriminated against lactose-intolerant customers under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Although the lawsuit was dismissed in May, the controversy may have played a role in Dunkin’s decision.
Sources: All Recipes, People