Starbucks Oleato Olive Discontinue: Starbucks will soon discontinue its Oleato olive oil-infused drinks across U.S. locations, marking an end to the controversial menu line just months after its nationwide debut.

The Oleato line, which features a blend of Partanna olive oil with Starbucks drinks like the Caffè Latte, Iced Shaken Espresso, and Cold Brew, is set to leave U.S. stores in early November as part of CEO Brian Niccol’s strategy to simplify the company’s offerings. Niccol, who joined Starbucks in September, is focused on a “back to Starbucks” approach aimed at refining the brand’s menu and operations.

The Oleato line first launched in Italy in early 2023, inspired by former CEO Howard Schultz’s experiences during a trip to Sicily, where locals consume olive oil daily. Enthralled by the tradition, Schultz began incorporating olive oil into his own coffee routine and introduced Oleato as a way to share what he called a “game-changer” with Starbucks customers globally. (starbucks oleato discontinued in usa)

Starbucks unveiled the line in Southern California last spring, expanding it to U.S. stores by January, though feedback from American customers quickly turned mixed. Some found the taste unappealing, while others cited laxative-like side effects from the olive oil-infused beverages.

While U.S. sales of Oleato drinks have lagged, locations in Italy, China, and Japan will continue to offer the olive oil-based beverages. Despite Schultz’s enthusiasm, many early reviews from the U.S. press were critical, and social media reactions highlighted consumer concerns.

These challenges, coupled with broader company setbacks in both the U.S. and China, influenced Starbucks’ decision to remove the drinks domestically.

The announcement comes ahead of Starbucks’ fiscal fourth-quarter earnings report scheduled for Wednesday, where the coffee giant is expected to discuss its recent performance amid three consecutive quarters of declining sales.

Investors are optimistic about Niccol’s new leadership, hoping for a shift away from Schultz’s influence and the re-establishment of Starbucks’ traditional values.

Starbucks’ decision to streamline its U.S. menu reflects a shift in the company’s strategy, focusing on profitability and operational efficiency as it continues its international expansion and responds to evolving consumer preferences.