Uh-oh, Starbucks Has a Big Problem

Starbucks patrons may not be able to get their favorite beverages over the summer since Starbucks is now experiencing both labor and supply shortages.

The shortages are apparently bad enough that there have been complaints at Starbucks locations across the country.

Starbucks, the world’s largest coffeehouse chain, is reporting a supply shortage – from such essentials as lids and straws to white mocha for its more expensive and flavorful drinks.

The Seattle-based company, with roughly 15,000 locations just in the U.S., said the supply-chain issue is only temporary and has not resulted in price increases, The New York Times reported Thursday.

Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson in April foreshadowed the shortage, telling Wall Street analysts about vendors having difficulty hiring workers and that his company would invest more to help supply chain partners – from staffing to manufacturing to distribution.

Among the other ingredients in short supply among U.S. locations are sweet cream, caramel, peach syrup, guava syrup and dragonfruit for drinks. Some food items are also in short supply including sausage, egg and cheese sandwiches.

Just The News

If I had to guess, I’d say the caramel and white mocha shortages are affecting a lot of people — at least more than the guava syrup shortage.

How in the world will people function without their daily Caramel Macchiato?

Starbucks was not on the list of 9 corporations Trump wanted patriots to start boycotting in April. But the company has a long history of promoting liberal causes, and they were one of the first corporations to fall in line with pandemic lockdowns and restrictions.

In early March, Starbucks claimed they would require face masks even after state mandates ended. Just two months later Starbucks relaxed face mask requirements by making them optional (if you’ve been vaccinated).

All that to say, if you’ve ever needed a reason to stop supporting Starbucks, the shortages provide a convenient excuse.