One of the country’s biggest coffee chains just made dairy-free options more accessible and affordable.
Scooter’s Coffee just made it easier—and more affordable—to sip on plant-based lattes. The fourth-largest coffee chain in the US has officially removed its plant-based milk upcharge at all 800+ locations across 29 states. This decision follows in the footsteps of Starbucks and Dutch Bros, leaving Dunkin’ as the only major coffee chain still charging extra for dairy-free options. The move comes after successful discussions with Mercy For Animals, a leading advocacy group pushing for health equity and sustainability in the food industry.
Breaking Down Barriers to Accessibility
For many consumers, plant-based milk isn’t just a preference—it’s a necessity. Studies show that nearly 90% of people from parts of East Asia, 80% of Native Americans, 65% of Africans and African Americans, and 50% of Latin Americans experience some form of lactose intolerance. Yet, despite this widespread issue, many coffee chains have continued to charge extra for non-dairy options.
“We are thrilled that Scooter’s Coffee has listened to their customers and taken this important step,” said Jennifer Behr, corporate relations manager at Mercy For Animals. “Charging more for plant-based milk isn’t just an unfair pricing practice—it’s an equity issue. We’ve seen firsthand how upcharges create barriers for people who are lactose intolerant, particularly in communities of color, where lactose-intolerance rates are significantly higher.”
A Sustainable Shift
Beyond health and equity, eliminating the plant-based milk upcharge also makes a big impact on the planet. Dairy production is resource-intensive, generating three times more greenhouse gas emissions than oat milk while requiring 11 times more land and 13 times more fresh water. By making non-dairy alternatives more accessible, Scooter’s is empowering customers to make eco-friendly choices without the added financial burden.
Who’s Next?
With three of the four largest coffee chains now offering plant-based milk at no extra cost, pressure is mounting on Dunkin’, Bluestone Lane, and Biggby Coffee to follow suit.
“We applaud Scooter’s Coffee for leading by example in making plant-based options more affordable,” said Behr. “Now we call on Dunkin’, Bluestone Lane, and Biggby Coffee to follow suit. The trend is clear—plant-based milk should be available at no extra cost. It’s the fair, sustainable, and health-conscious choice for customers everywhere.”
