Starbucks has seen foot traffic decline recently while competitors Dunkin’ and Dutch Bros have seen a bit more success in visitor numbers this year, reported research firm Placer.ai.

“Overall traffic and average visits per venue to Starbucks were down year-over-year (YoY) in Q2 2025, although the visit gaps generally narrowed compared to Q1 2025. … Visits to the reigning coffee giant were down slightly (0.1%) YoY in Q2 2025 while average visits per location declined 4.2% in the same period,” the firm said.

Over at Dunkin’, overall visits and average visits per venue were up 1.7% and 0.3% YoY, respectively, in Q2 2025.

“But while broader market forces may have helped, Dunkin's Q2 2025 turnaround may also be attributed to the chain's promotional efforts—including a new ad campaign to promote the chain's $6 Meal Deals. As value continues to drive consumer decision-making, Dunkin's emphasis on affordable bundles positions it well to maintain its visit share despite the growing competition in the space,” Placer.ai said.

Dutch Bros, which has been pushing a major expansion plan, saw growth of 13.8% YoY alongside a 0.8% increase in average visits per venue—indicating that the chain's ongoing expansion is not taking traffic from existing venues.

Looking ahead, the coffee sector will be characterized by the distinct strategies of its key players, the report said. “Dutch Bros' aggressive expansion will continue to challenge the incumbents on a local level, while Dunkin's focus on value will likely remain a key advantage with budget-conscious consumers. The ultimate test will be for Starbucks, as the industry leader's ability to translate its strategic innovations into sustained visit growth will determine its capacity to defend its market share.”

Earlier this summer, Dutch Bros and Dunkin’ both released fruit-forward strawberry beverages. Dutch Bros coffee launched a lineup of “mocktail inspired drinks,” including a Strawberry Colada and Blue Lagoon with strawberry fruit. Dunkin’ teamed up with pop singer Sabrina Carpenter to release Sabrina’s Strawberry Daydream Refresher—"an iced, creamy Refresher available now as a $3 medium for Dunkin’ Rewards members.”