Starbucks to Change Ice Cube Type! Better Texture and More Water-Efficient Production

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Starbucks Tests New Ice Types in American Stores

Recently, an American Starbucks barista posted that the company is testing a new type of ice for making beverages at three locations in the United States.

Some netizens have speculated whether this move is aimed at making ice take up less space, allowing for more beverage to be included in the cup...

Customer Complaints About Excessive Ice

Previously, consumers in an increasing number of countries have been complaining that Starbucks cold drinks contain too much ice! After receiving their drinks, they find themselves with only a few sips before the beverage is gone, leaving half a cup of ice behind, which feels like poor value for money.

In response to the growing number of consumers choosing no-water/less-ice options, which requires stores to add more ingredients and thus incur additional material costs, Starbucks made a surprising move: charging extra!

In mid-April this year, netizens in the United States shared on domestic social media platforms that starting May 9th, all stores would charge an additional fee for Refresher drinks ordered with no-water/less-ice options.

In response to this Starbucks measure, many netizens expressed that it was outrageous, with comments such as "It's already so expensive and yet they're so stingy," "This is such a turn-off," and others asking, "Can I get a refund if I ask for extra ice?"

Starbucks' Response and Ice Improvement

Regarding this ice type change, Starbucks has denied these claims. They stated that changing the ice shape does not mean customers will receive less ice, as baristas use the same ice scoop. So why did they suddenly decide to switch to smaller pellet ice?

"Because it tastes better when you eat it!" Starbucks noted that an increasing number of consumers now love drinking iced beverages, with cold drinks accounting for over 75% of beverage sales.

They also observed that customers who drink iced beverages have a habit of eating the ice, but the original ice shape was too large and difficult to chew. Therefore, they switched to this type of ice that has a crispier texture and smaller pellets.

Mixed Reactions from Customers

American netizens' reactions to Starbucks' decision have been polarized (translated from Chinese). Netizens who enjoy eating ice expressed comments like: "Yes! This type of ice tastes really great when you eat it!!!" and "With this kind of ice, I could eat! more! ice! for! a! whole! day!!!"

Other netizens expressed concerns: "Although this ice tastes good, it melts too quickly... On a hot summer day outside, the drink would probably lose its flavor in no time..." Some also worried that this type of ice might not be suitable for making Frappuccinos, concerned that the texture of Frappuccinos might be altered...

Future Plans and Environmental Considerations

Regarding netizens' concerns, Starbucks has not yet provided much response. However, the company chose this type of ice partly because it tastes better when eaten, and partly because the new ice machines use less water, making them more environmentally friendly. Therefore, they plan to roll out this ice to all stores in the coming years.

Image source: Internet