Starbucks feels the heat as more chains compete for US coffee drinkers
January 30, 2026
Starbucks revolutionized U.S. coffee culture. But it’s facing unprecedented competition. And that will make it harder to win back customers it’s lost to perennial rival Dunkin’ and fast-growing drive-thru chains like Dutch Bros and 7 Brew. Seattle-based Starbucks was a small, regional chain when former CEO Howard Schultz acquired it in 1987 and made it a global brand. Now, other small chains are seeing explosive growth. Chinese chains like Luckin Coffee and Mixue also are getting into the mix. The chief operating officer of Starbucks says the company believes the way to stay on top is to open more cafes that offer both convenience and a comfortable place to linger.