Pumpkin Spice Latte returns to Starbucks menus on August  26 as fall buzz heats up

The eagerly awaited Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks is returning to US and Canadian coffeehouses on Tuesday, August 26. This date marks the unofficial start to fall for many Starbucks lovers, despite the actual season's onset a month later. The PSL, as fans call it, is renowned for being the brand's most beloved seasonal beverage since its introduction in 2003, CBS News reports.

Alongside the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Starbucks will bring back other customer favorites such as the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai. Additionally, the menu will feature a new item: the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. Furthermore, a newly introduced fall-themed beverage, the Pecan Cortado, aims to combine "fall flavors with our bold espresso," according to Tressie Leiberman, Starbucks' global chief brand officer, as reported by CBS News.

The return of the PSL comes at a significant time for Starbucks. The company has witnessed a slight decline in its US same-store sales, dropping by 2% last year. Introducing a familiar favorite like the PSL is part of efforts to draw customers back to its stores, noted CEO Brian Niccol. The "Back to Starbucks" campaign underscores this strategy, aiming to rejuvenate foot traffic and sales, according to AP News.

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The appeal of the Pumpkin Spice Latte is not merely attributed to its taste but also its cultural resonance, sparking nostalgia and excitement among its fans. According to the Starbucks website, in 2015, Starbucks added real pumpkin to the drink, enhancing its flavor profile. Nationwide, the anticipation of the PSL's return invariably boosts store visits, with a reported increase in foot traffic by 24% on release days, as recorded by Starbucks.

This year, Starbucks extends the PSL experience beyond cafes, offering products like pumpkin spice-flavored coffee and creamers, available on grocery store shelves. Customers can now enjoy the cozy delights of Starbucks' fall favorites in the comfort of their own homes.