As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with some insights into why Starbucks decided to discontinue the Trenta size for their beverages. While I cannot speak on behalf of the company, I can offer some possible reasons based on industry knowledge and observations.
1. Excessive portion size: The Trenta size was introduced by Starbucks in 2011 as a response to customer demands for larger beverages. However, at 31 ounces, it was significantly larger than any other size offered by Starbucks. The decision to discontinue it may have been driven by concerns over excessive portion sizes and potential health implications. Consuming such large quantities of sugary or caffeinated drinks regularly can have negative effects on health, including increased risk of obesity and other health issues.
2. Product consistency: Starbucks takes pride in its high-quality beverages and the consistency of their taste. With the Trenta size being significantly larger than their other sizes, it may have been challenging to maintain the same taste and quality across all their offerings. It is possible that Starbucks decided to streamline their menu and focus on providing consistent experiences for their customers by eliminating the Trenta size.
3. Customer behavior: While there may have been initial demand for larger beverage sizes, Starbucks likely analyzed customer purchasing patterns and noticed that the Trenta size was not as popular as they had anticipated. It is possible that customers preferred the more manageable Venti size (24 ounces), and the demand for the Trenta size did not justify its continued availability.
4. Sustainability concerns: Starbucks has been making efforts to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact. The Trenta size, being significantly larger, would require more resources to produce and generate more waste. By eliminating this size, Starbucks may have aimed to align with their sustainability goals and reduce their overall carbon footprint.
5. Limited usage options: The Trenta size was only available for cold drinks, specifically iced teas, iced coffee, cold brew, and Refreshers. This limited its versatility compared to other sizes, such as the Grande or Venti, which can accommodate a wider range of beverages, including hot drinks and Frappuccinos. Starbucks may have decided that the limited usage options for the Trenta size did not justify its continued presence on the menu.
While these are plausible reasons for Starbucks discontinuing the Trenta size, it is important to note that Starbucks has made changes to their menu over the years based on evolving customer preferences, market trends, and business strategies. The decision to remove the Trenta size was likely a result of a combination of factors and ongoing assessment of their offerings.