Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice

A lot happened in 2003. Harley Davidson celebrated its 100th birthday; the UK recorded its highest temperature ever (101.3° in Kent), the American military captured Saddam Hussein, and the very last classic-style Volkswagen Beetle rolled off the production line. However, one momentous occasion in the fall of 2003 fundamentally changed how Americans welcome the autumn season. Thanks to this, Americans no longer wait for crisp, windy air or the gorgeous changing colors of the leaves to indicate the transition from Summer to Fall. Thanks to Starbucks and its genius team of flavor engineers, Fall officially arrives once everyone can get their hands on a Pumpkin Spice Latte.    

Because Starbucks is a master at coffee culture innovation, back in 2003, it knew it needed to develop seasonal drinks. At that time, they had already offered a few holiday beverages like Peppermint Mocha and Gingerbread Latte, but they wanted something that screamed “Fall,” so they tested different concepts. After trying flavor profiles from cinnamon to caramel to orange and marshmallow, they finally decided upon pumpkin spice. The spice was vital because it complimented and perfectly enhanced the espresso flavor. Starbucks had no idea how wild their audience would go for the Pumpkin Spice Latte, but it is safe to say that it forever changed the game for their seasonal holiday drink menu. With over 400 million sold, this iconic 380-calorie coffee drink is Starbucks’ most popular seasonal drink and, to this day, manages to bring out the best and worst in global foodie influencers, carpool Moms, and angsty teenagers alike.  

Though Starbucks originated the Pumpkin Spice Latte, many significant brands followed their lead. Here are just a few examples of brands who jumped on the pumpkin spice bandwagon: 

So there you have it. Starbucks forever altered the world with pumpkin spice, and none of us will be the same. From a business and brand perspective, it was and is pure genius. Every company that creates products will always hope to emulate what Starbucks did with its Pumpkin Spice Latte. To take something from concept to public product to world-changing juggernaut is what business dreams are made of, and let’s be honest, that’s the spice of life!