Starbucks debuts value menu following trend of consumer discounts among chain retailers

Starbucks announced a new "Pairings Menu" Wednesday, featuring discounted combinations of breakfast and drink items, in an effort to win the favor of cost-savvy consumers. The decision follows a recent trend among national retailers amidst rising inflation, in which mega-chains like Target have begun slashing prices in an effort to encourage consumer spending.

According to CNN, Starbucks is the most recent company to enter the value menu game, with other fast-food chains like Wendy's and McDonald's releasing discounted items in recent weeks,  targeting low-income consumers.

David Henkes, executive of food industry consulting firm Technomic, told CNN that fast-service chains have seen a drop in consumer traffic over the past few months, prompting the switch to value-focused options.

According to WGN, the Pairings Menu offers customers two choices. Customers can choose from a tall iced or hot coffee or tea and a croissant for just $5. For $6, customers can purchase the same drink choices and any breakfast sandwich.