From Nation's Restaurant News · · 1m 30s
Scooter's Coffee Finds Flavor Balance
Scooter's coffee chain balances flavor innovation with operational efficiency through signature drinks and barista input.
In brief
Scooter's coffee chain balances flavor innovation with operational efficiency through signature drinks and barista input. Scooter's Coffee launched a 'Licious Lineup' of 7% growth in espresso sales using barista feedback and branded partnerships. Originally reported by Nation's Restaurant News.
Scooter's Coffee Innovation
Scooter's Coffee offers 41 syrups and sauces in 688 square foot locations for speedy service.
“Every single inch matters, and we're very mindful of any new ingredients that come into the kiosk”
Signature Drink History
Caramelicious has been Scooter's signature drink for 27 years, accounting for 15% of business.
“It has since been our No. 1 and only signature drink for 27 years and it's done incredibly well”
Licious Lineup Expansion
Scooter's launched six new signature drinks to complement Caramelicious, including Sea Salt Caramelicious.
“We didn't give it just one buddy, we actually gave it six buddies”
Flavor Differentiation
Scooter's introduced fruit-flavored lattes and honeycomb variants to differentiate from competitors.
“We were the first to have a fruit-flavored latte and I hadn't seen a honey version before”
Barista Feedback System
Baristas submit over 1,000 menu ideas via QR code for guest preferences.
“Hey, we really need this kind of latte”
Branded Partnerships
Scooter's partners with Chips Ahoy, Little Debbie, and Sour Patch for flavor inspiration.
“Scooter's continues to innovate its coffee and espresso drinks, partnering with brands like Chips Ahoy cookies, Little Debbie snack cakes, and Sour Patch candies for flavor inspiration”
Consumer Data Approach
Scooter's uses consumer surveys and purchase intent data for new drink concepts.
“We start with just digging through consumer trends, flavor trends, working with our suppliers to hear what their perspectives are and what they're seeing in the industry as opportunities”
Espresso Growth
New signature drinks grew espresso category by 7% in February.
“The new signature drinks were added in February and have grown the espresso category by 7%”
Operational Efficiency
80% of Scooter's 930 locations are drive-thrus with two espresso machines and two blenders.
“About 80% of Scooter's 930 locations are drive thrus”
Coffee Roasting
Scooter's roasts its own arabica coffee beans for medium and dark roast options.
“The Omaha, Nebraska-based chain also takes pride in roasting its own thoughtfully sourced arabica coffee beans”
Licious Lineup Details
Licious Lineup includes chocolate fudge, cinnamon, honeycomb, strawberry shortcake, and turtle flavors.
“The 'Licious Lineup' includes an array of high-appeal flavors like chocolate fudge, cinnamon, honeycomb, strawberry shortcake, and turtle”
Scooter's Recognition
Scooter's earned 2026 Bevvy Award for 'Best Coffee Program'.
“While all that has contributed to Scooter's earning a 2026 Bevvy Award for 'Best Coffee Program,' it's the signature 'Licious Lineup' that differentiated the brand's menu innovation this year”
At a glance
Scooter's Coffee launched a 'Licious Lineup' of 7% growth in espresso sales using barista feedback and branded partnerships.
