After many months of outreach, collecting petition signatures and social media actions, Starbucks UK has finally responded to us. This is thanks to the online impact of our Open Letter and the help of our dedicated supporters. While we’re glad Starbucks has acknowledged us, their reply simply isn’t good enough.

Their response was polite, but vague. They avoided directly addressing the key issues we raised, offering only general statements about animal welfare and the environment. A customer service representative said our “comments have been documented for review and consideration.” What we needed was a real plan, a timeline for change, and a promise from Alex Rayner (Starbucks UK General Manager) to listen to their customers. Instead, we received PR spiel that sidestepped the problems. 

It is disappointing, but not surprising. Large corporations often hope that polite replies will make campaigners quiet down. But we won’t stop until Starbucks takes meaningful, measurable action.

Take Action: Tell Starbucks to Do Better

We need Starbucks to understand that this isn’t about reputation management; it’s about responsibility. A genuine response means transparency, accountability, and clear commitments. It means listening to concerns, and acting on them. 

We’re calling on everyone who cares about cows trapped on dairy farms to take action. Let’s make sure Starbucks hears us loud and clear. You can help us by calling the Starbucks UK Press Office directly and urge them to give us a meaningful response to our Open Letter. The line goes straight to voicemail, but you can leave them a message to express your concerns. 

• Starbucks Press Office: 020 3047 2656 

When you call, be polite but firm. You can use this sample script as a guide:

“Hello, I’m calling because I’m disappointed by Starbucks’ recent response to the open letter from Animal Justice Project. We need Starbucks to take real, public action, not just issue vague statements via their customer service representatives. Can you confirm whether or not Starbucks will commit to piloting oat milk as the default in one UK store? We expect a timeline and a transparent plan. We expect action.”

In addition, you can email Starbucks directly with your concerns. Email them on the address provided below, and tell Starbucks to do better by giving us a meaningful reply and to start acting on our concerns.

• StarbucksPressEMEA@edelman.com

Spread the Word

If you’ve called or emailed, share it! Post on social media with the hashtag #UdderlyKind and tag @StarbucksUK so they know the pressure is growing, and that we’re not backing down. 

The more voices they hear, the harder it will be to ignore us. Together, we can make sure this coffee giant implements changes and gives us a meaningful response. We need more than our comments ‘considered.’ We need action, and we need it now.

As always, 

For the animals!