The leaves haven’t even begun to turn, but the air is already buzzing with the familiar scent of fall’s most anticipated beverage. On August 26, the iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) makes its triumphant return, not just as a seasonal treat, but as a crucial player in the coffee giant’s strategy to invigorate lagging sales. But here’s the twist: the pumpkin spice invasion has already begun, with grocery store shelves getting an early jump on the season, offering at-home coffee and creamer versions weeks before you can even order your first PSL from a barista.
Why Starbucks Is Counting on Pumpkin Spice to Perk Up Its Profits
This year, Starbucks is banking on its beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte to ignite a much-needed sales surge. While the drink itself won’t grace menus until August 26—four days later than last year and its latest debut since 2022—Starbucks has broken tradition by announcing its return a full month in advance.
This early heads-up isn’t just about building anticipation; it’s a direct response to a significant shift in consumer behavior. Google searches for “pumpkin spice” have surged since mid-June this year, a full month earlier than in 2024, signaling an unprecedented pre-fall craving. This proactive revelation also aims to preempt the inevitable Reddit leaks that often spoil Starbucks’ seasonal surprises.
For Starbucks, the PSL is far more than just a popular beverage; it’s a vital commercial asset. With the company grappling with slumping sales and escalating competition in recent years—challenges so profound they prompted the appointment of a new CEO tasked with fundamentally overhauling its strategy—the PSL’s potential impact is colossal. Last year alone, seasonal offerings accounted for approximately 10% of Starbucks’ total sales. The power of the PSL is undeniable: following its release last year, Starbucks saw a staggering 24% spike in daily visits, triggering a “sustained visit spike” that endured for several days, according to a Placer.ai report.
Starbucks Unveils its 2025 Fall Menu
Starbucks is rolling out the orange carpet for autumn with its highly anticipated 2025 Fall Menu. Beyond the much-hyped return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, fans can rejoice as several other beloved seasonal sips make their comeback—including the creamy Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, the subtly spiced Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, and the nutty Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. Adding to the excitement, Starbucks is introducing a brand-new Pecan Cortado for those seeking a richer, more concentrated fall flavor, alongside the new Italian Sausage Egg Bites — a warm, savory pairing perfect for chilly autumn mornings and crisp coffee breaks.
Starbucks Launches Fall Grocery Lineup Ahead of In-Cafe PSL Debut
For those already embracing #Summerween or simply craving autumn’s signature flavors, Starbucks is serving up an early taste of fall—right at home. Weeks before the Pumpkin Spice Latte returns to café menus on August 26, Starbucks has quietly stocked grocery store shelves nationwide with a festive lineup of seasonal coffees and creamers.
These include the classic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Flavored Coffee in all its forms—ground, K-Cup pods, and Nespresso Vertuo capsules. For those who prefer different notes of the season, Starbucks Fall Blend Coffee and the warm, inviting Starbucks Smoked Butterscotch Flavored Coffee are also back in both ground and K-Cup formats. Cold coffee aficionados can rejoice as well: the convenient Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate has also returned to store shelves.
No fall coffee ritual is complete without the perfect creamer. The coffee brand delivers with the return of the popular Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte–Inspired Creamer and its non-dairy counterpart—both now available at retailers nationwide. Plus, there’s a brand-new addition to sweeten your cup: the Starbucks Maple Pecan Latte–Inspired Non-Dairy Creamer, offering a fresh twist on cozy indulgence.
And the pumpkin spice convenience doesn’t stop there. Beginning in early August, Starbucks’ ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages will also hit shelves at grocery stores, national retailers, convenience stores, and even gas stations. Look out for the chilled Starbucks Iced Espresso Pumpkin Spice Latte and the iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino Chilled Coffee Drink, perfect for grabbing on the go.
Remember, Starbucks’ entire seasonal grocery lineup—from ground coffee to ready-to-drink options—is available for a limited time only, so stock up on your fall favorites while supplies last!