More Coffee Chains Dropping Non-Dairy Surcharge – CoffeeTalk

Scooter’s Coffee, the fourth-largest coffee chain in the US, has removed its plant-based milk upcharge at all 800+ locations across 29 states. This decision follows Starbucks and Dutch Bros, leaving Dunkin’ as the only major coffee chain still charging extra for dairy-free options. The move comes after successful discussions with Mercy For Animals, a leading advocacy group pushing for health equity and sustainability in the food industry. Studies show that nearly 90% of people from parts of East Asia, 80% of Native Americans, 65% of Africans and African Americans, and 50% of Latin Americans experience some form of lactose intolerance. Yet, many coffee chains have continued to charge extra for non-dairy options. Eliminating the plant-based milk upcharge is not just an unfair pricing practice but an equity issue, as it creates barriers for people who are lactose intolerant, particularly in communities of color where lactose-intolerance rates are significantly higher. By making non-dairy alternatives more accessible, Scooter’s is empowering customers to make eco-friendly choices without the added financial burden. With three of the four largest coffee chains now offering plant-based milk at no extra cost, pressure is mounting on Dunkin’, Bluestone Lane, and Biggby Coffee to follow suit.

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