UK - Starbucks is launching two new plant-based products in its UK Chilled RTD coffee line, as demand for dairy-free alternatives that easily fit into busy lifestyles continues to grow.
Rounding out its on-the-go Chilled Classics lineup will be the Oat Based Cappuccino and Oat Based Caramel Macchiato. According to a press statement, the company's innovation team has worked hard to develop plant-based recipes that taste the same as its main dairy range.
Charlotte Oldham, Starbucks' marketing director for EMEA, stated, "Expanding the choices we offer to our consumers, regardless of their flavor preferences or lifestyles, is a testament to Starbucks' pioneering efforts to continuously innovate our product offering without ever compromising on taste."
The company has also launched two limited-edition products. The Starbucks Frappuccino Sip On Sunlight iced coffee aims to capture 'feel good sentiments in a bottle,' with toffee and honey flavors that 'conjure the feeling of sunlight'. The package is brightly colored and has drawings of the sun and bumblebees. Oldham describes the limited-edition drink as a "chilled coffee treats with a fun and playful concept to provide consumers with a delicious moment of positivity".
In addition, a limited-edition Starbucks Blissful Retreat product has joined the Chilled Classics lineup to 'offer a quiet moment' for coffee aficionados. It is packaged with espresso, milk, mocha flavor, and sea salt notes, and the packaging has 'calming' blue waves and a tropical paradise-themed design.
All of the new products will be available in grocery and convenience stores nationwide this month (January 2025).
Lactose-free Food Market Insights: CMI Research
The lactose-free food market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.1% throughout the forecast period from 2024 to 2031 because of the prevalence of lactose intolerance and milk allergy. This market size, in 2024, is around US$ 18.73 billion. It is predicted to cross the US$ 36.68 billion mark during 2031.
Lactose-free food dominated the North American world market with a healthy-conscious population.
Analyst View: Strategic Positioning in the Lactose-Free Food Market
The market of lactose-free food will grow steadily with a growing global population who are lactose intolerant: Yash Doshi, Sr. Consultant.
Conclusion: Business Takeaways
The lactose-free food sector is growing due to customer demands for dietary products, opening an opportunity for companies to innovate and meet different tastes. Starbucks expanding its chilled Ready-to-Drink portfolio in the United Kingdom indicates a trend of health-conscious, lifestyle-oriented offerings that are convenient and on-the-go beverages. Therefore, product variety and consumer trends are very important.