Starbucks Expands Refreshers to Drive Afternoon Visits Under Back to Starbucks
Starbucks is leaning more on its Refreshers platform to grow afternoon traffic as part of its Back to Starbucks strategy. Third-quarter fiscal 2026 results show broad-based growth, though morning transactions remain strongest. The company plans to test sparkling Spritzers and has added blended Refreshers, while competition in cold, customizable beverages intensifies. U.S. comparable sales rose 7.9%, backed by 4.2% transaction growth and 3.6% higher average ticket, and Refresher revenues grew at a double-digit rate.