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Starbucks chains across the US are facing a national supply shortage that may affect the availability of certain beverages.
According to a spokeswoman for the company: “Some stores will experience outages of various items at the same times.”
The only ingredient that Starbucks has confirmed is affected by the shortages is oat milk. Oat milk has proven a popular dairy substitute, and the shortages are sure to affect lactose intolerant patronage in Starbucks stores nationwide.
According to a Business Insider report, a memo circulating within the company suggests up to 25 items have been affected by supply shortages. Among the products currently on “temporary hold” — as the memo puts it — are hazelnut syrup and green iced tea.
Coffee lovers have taken to social media to air complaints about missing ingredients in their local outlets. Some users have noted that caramel and lemonade are out of stock. Others say their favorite drinks are currently unavailable for order — likely due to key ingredients being out of stock.
Starbucks staff members have also expressed frustration dealing with customers. According to one employee, the company had underestimated the effect that reduced coronavirus restrictions would have on in-store patronage, and as a result, did not order sufficient stock to accommodate the demand of customers returning to Starbucks cafes and restaurants.
According to the spokeswoman, the company is currently in talks with its suppliers to find a solution for the shortages.
The BBC asked Starbucks about the cause of the supply shortages. In an email, the coffeehouse chain attributed the “supply chain constraints” to supply shortages of products.
Starbucks isn’t the only company affected by supply shortages. Chipotle says that wage increases and the rising costs of food have compelled a 4% rise in prices for all items across their entire menu. Chick-Fil-A has said the shortages are “industry-wide,” with the company forced to reduce its dipping sauce options.
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