Introduction:Starbucks is set to launch its new 259ml mini ultra-concentrated series on October 17, featuring four popular drinks: the Caramel Macchiato, Red Velvet Caramel Macchiato, Iced Coconutmilk Latte, and Cocoa Cloud Macchiato. The introduction of these smaller-sized cups not only responds to market demand but also reignites discussions about in-store latte art services. Will this change enhance the customer experience? Let’s take a closer look at the highlights of the new cup sizes and the truth behind latte art.

In recent years, coffee has evolved from being just a pick-me-up to becoming part of lifestyle aesthetics. Many consumers have started to appreciate the art of latte art, viewing a cup of coffee as an experience that engages both taste and sight. Amidst this trend, Starbucks is making a move.

It is reported that Starbucks plans to roll out its new 259ml mini ultra-concentrated series on October 17, with the first four drinks being the Caramel Macchiato, Red Velvet Caramel Macchiato, Iced Coconutmilk Latte, and Cocoa Cloud Macchiato. The launch of this smaller cup size is seen as a positive response to customers’ calls for “more size options.”

Upon the announcement, netizens responded enthusiastically, with many recalling a classic video in which entrepreneur Luo Yonghao once criticized Starbucks’ cup size naming. Comments flooded in with jokes like: “Quick, call Teacher Luo to place an order!” This meme originated from Luo Yonghao’s humorous critique of Starbucks’ “tall, grande, venti” sizing in an early microfilm.

Notably, this is not the first time Starbucks has introduced smaller cup sizes. Previously, the brand had offered a 133ml Caramel Macchiato available for dine-in only at some Reserve stores, and overseas Starbucks locations have long featured multiple small-size options. Bringing the 259ml mini series to the Chinese mainland market can be seen as an adjustment in the brand’s localization strategy.

However, aside from cup size, what consumers talk about the most is Starbucks’ latte art service. Many netizens have expressed that despite years of visiting Starbucks, they’ve never seen latte art in regular stores, sparking curiosity about whether this will change this time.

A former Starbucks partner revealed that when store traffic is low, baristas are actually willing to make latte art for customers. But due to many customers being in a hurry—especially in office district locations—baristas often have to simplify the process, making it difficult to produce refined latte art.

In fact, Starbucks has previously received feedback regarding latte art. Some netizens shared that they specifically chose to order with the store cup hoping to see beautiful latte art, only to be told by staff, “We don’t do latte art.” Others have questioned why even lattes at Reserve stores often come without any latte art.

In response to these concerns, industry insiders generally believe the reasons boil down to three main factors: first, the fast-paced operational tempo and high order volume at Starbucks stores often lead baristas to prioritize efficiency; second, the brand does not mandate latte art as an essential skill; third, most stores use latte art pitchers that have a relatively high learning curve, making them less beginner-friendly.

With the launch of the 259ml mini cups, Starbucks will also equip each store with smaller milk pitchers, roughly half the size of the standard large pitchers. It is understood that this change will help baristas more easily create latte art with clear patterns and well-defined designs.

Upon hearing the news, many netizens took to social media to joke: “Are they trying to force us to do latte art now?” “I can’t do latte art, suddenly feeling a bit worried,” “Luckily, I can still draw a heart,” reflecting the varied reactions from both professionals and customers to this change.

However, some industry experts point out that while latte art can enhance visual enjoyment, the true quality of a cup of coffee still depends on the ratio of milk to coffee, the fineness of the milk foam, and the evenness of the blend. As long as these fundamentals are solid, even without fancy latte art, a satisfying flavor experience can still be achieved.

In summary, Starbucks’ launch of the 259ml mini ultra-concentrated series not only meets the market demand for smaller cup sizes but also rekindles public attention to coffee quality and service details. Whether or not it comes with latte art, the essence of a good cup of coffee always lies in professional brewing techniques and heartfelt preparation.

The above content is compiled by CoffeeHunters, a coffee news website.