SEATTLE Starbucks is reportedly planning to add an Italian-style sandwich called the Piadini to the menu of all its U.S. stores next week. News reports also indicated that the coffee chain has outfitted another 800 units with new ovens, raising the tally to 4,000 stores. The equipment figures into Starbucks’ previously disclosed plans to upgrade its lunch menu and further tweak its breakfast offerings.
In addition, Starbucks reportedly said it will not raise coffee prices.
The coffee chain’s morning line-up was extended at the beginning of September to include such health-oriented items as an oatmeal cup and whole-grain pastries. Officials reportedly said the move has raised average food sales per customer.
Officials provided the media with more details of the revisions that are being made to Starbucks’ breakfast sandwiches. Chairman and chief executive officer Howard Schultz had voiced concerns that the smell of the items may have masked the aroma of Starbucks’ coffee being prepared.
The chain is switching to an English muffin for the sandwich, and making them available with mild cheddar instead of a sharp variety, according to news reports.
Scheduled to launch Sept. 30, the square, doughy Piadinis will come in two varieties: sausage, egg and cheese; or portobello mushroom stuffed with spinach, feta and ricotta cheeses. The suggested price is $3.25.