Less than three years after introducing the plant-based dairy alternative, Dunkin is removing it from its menu. The decision means that the discontinuation of the Coconut Refreshers lineup, which featured colourful drinks blending coconut milk and flavoured iced tea, was introduced in 2021. While Dunkin’ did not specify the reason for the reduction in plant-based options, it is common for chains to make such adjustments if items are not popular or become too costly.
Dunkin’ will still offer almond milk and oat milk as dairy-free creamer alternatives. The removal of coconut milk, identified as the most expensive nondairy milk for restaurants, is likely influenced by cost considerations, according to Robert Byrne, Director for Consumer and Industry Insights at Technomic. Only 1% of Dunkin’s customers had tried coconut milk, compared to 5-7% for almond milk and 3% for oat milk, as per Technomic’s research.
Changing consumer preferences also play a role, with the popularity of oat and almond milk increasing, while traditional options like soy and coconut are declining. Technomic’s Ignite menu data indicates a drop in soy (almost 9%) and coconut (0.1%) offerings, while oat and almond options have seen growth by 16% and 6%, respectively. This move follows Dunkin’s earlier discontinuation of the Dunkaccino earlier this year.
