Dunkin' Joins Starbucks in Removing Nondairy Milk Surcharge Nationwide

Amid growing demand for nondairy milk options, Dunkin' is making a pivotal change in its pricing policy. Beginning March 5, the popular coffee chain will no longer impose an additional charge for nondairy milk across its U.S. locations. This move aligns Dunkin' with other major coffee brands, notably Starbucks, which eliminated its surcharge following public outcry and legal disputes.

As reported by Salon's Joy Saha in May 2023, coffee shops were slow in eliminating the extra costs associated with nondairy milk. However, a shift has been observed, particularly after Starbucks' October 2024 announcement. Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol expressed the significance of personalization in the brand's offerings, stating, "Core to the Starbucks Experience is the ability to customize your beverage to make it yours."

Salon highlighted a 2024 lawsuit against Starbucks in which customers argued that the surcharge was discriminatory, especially against those with milk allergies. Dunkin' faced a similar legal challenge, prompting part of its decision to adjust its nondairy milk policies.

Nicolette Baker, in a piece for Food & Wine, emphasized that Dunkin's removal of the surcharge was driven by customer feedback, while Starbucks' policy change corresponds with a renewed focus on core values under Niccol's leadership.

Whether motivated by allergies, taste preferences, or ethical considerations, this policy adjustment by the two largest U.S. coffee chains is a positive development for consumers preferring nondairy options.