Dunkin’ to Offer Free Dairy Alternatives for Drinks Starting March 5
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Dunkin’ loyalists have a reason to rejoice as the popular coffee chain is set to introduce free dairy alternative options for any beverage from March 5. A Dunkin’ representative confirmed this exciting change to PEOPLE, highlighting that customers can now personalize their drinks without any additional cost. This move aims to provide guests with a wider range of customization choices, ensuring they can enjoy their favorite Dunkin’ beverages just the way they like them, at an excellent value.

The company cites customer feedback as a guiding force behind this decision, underscoring its commitment to meeting the evolving preferences of its patrons. Currently, Dunkin’ imposes extra charges for adding almond milk and oat milk to drinks, with varying fees across different locations. For instance, in New York City, customers pay a 75-cent upcharge, while in Chicago, the upcharge is $1 through the Dunkin’ app.
With over 13,200 outlets in nearly 40 global markets, Dunkin’ holds the status of being the second-largest coffee chain worldwide, trailing behind Starbucks, which boasts more than 32,000 stores. This move aligns Dunkin’ with its competitors like Starbucks, which eliminated the upcharge for non-dairy milk in November, aiming to cater to diverse dietary preferences and enhance customer satisfaction.
Following the footsteps of leading coffee chains, Dunkin’ joins the league of companies such as Dutch Bros, Tim Hortons, and Scooter’s Coffee in waiving extra charges for non-dairy milk options. This strategic shift comes amidst advocacy from groups like the Centre for Responsible Food Business urging coffee chains to remove barriers for customers with dietary restrictions, thereby promoting inclusivity.
Jamie Berger, Vice President of Communications at CRFB, emphasized the value of making non-dairy alternatives more accessible to consumers without incurring additional costs. With the growing trend of major coffee chains abolishing surcharges for non-dairy options, it signifies a consumer-centric approach that prioritizes accommodating varying preferences without financial penalties.
As the coffee industry evolves to meet changing consumer demands, Dunkin’s latest menu modification underscores a progressive step towards enhancing customer experience through increased flexibility and affordability. By aligning with the evolving landscape of the food and beverage sector, Dunkin’ aims to strengthen its rapport with customers and reinforce its position as a brand that prioritizes inclusivity and consumer satisfaction.
