Starbucks is releasing its first new holiday drink in five years! Chestnut Praline Latte (CPL) is being described as flavors of caramelized chestnuts and spices finished with whipped cream and spiced praline crumbs.
CPL was tested in markets last year but this season will go nationwide just in time to be presented in a red cup. Back for another holiday season, Peppermint Mocha and Gingerbread Latte.
Why the new drink? According to the Starbucks Howard Schultz, CEO , Chairman and President, “Holiday 2013 witnessed a seismic shift in consumer behavior in which many traditional brick-and-mortar retailers experienced a decline in foot traffic compared to significant growth in online shopping.” Howard Schultz, continues to say “Customers researched, compared prices, and then bought the brands and items they wanted online, frequently utilizing a mobile device to do so. Since that time, we have been focused on radically redefining the Starbucks retail experience for our partners, customers and stores. As a result of the work we’ve done, Starbucks is poised for a great holiday – our innovation pipeline is strong and we have a number of initiatives ready to launch during the holiday and into calendar 2015 and beyond.”
Starbucks will also offer the Christmas blend which will be celebrating its 30 anniversary along with the unveiling of the first-ever 100 uniquely designed Starbucks Cards in a full collection. With this holiday season Starbucks is also launching a unique opportunity for a select number of customers to win “Starbucks for Life” by simply swiping their Starbucks Card or paying with their mobile device.
“What could be bigger this holiday than winning Starbucks for Life? This is the first time we have ever offered customers something of this magnitude and what better way than to anchor it with our renowned Starbucks Card program. This giveaway is poised to bring great excitement and fun to our customers during this special time of the year,” said Sharon Rothstein, Starbucks executive vice president and global chief marketing officer.
So the real question is, will the Chestnut Praline Latte have a cult like following like that of the Pumpkin Spice Latte? Now, you just have to wait until November 12th to try the new Holiday drink.
