For years, retail pundits have proclaimed that retail is all about the experience. The third place. The community gathering spot. The Instagram-worthy moment. And no company has been put up on the third place pedestal more than Starbucks. Heck, Starbucks is actually a big reason why the term “third place” exists in the first place.

The exclusive Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate debut follows a record-breaking sales day after the coffee chain launched its 2025 seasonal menu.

Starbucks’ union is expanding its week-old strike against the company. Starbucks Workers United said baristas from 30 more stores in 25 U.S. cities planned to join the strike Thursday, including stores in Cleveland;