Drive-Thru Coffee Chains Expand Aggressively Across Suburbs and Cities
Coffee chains in the United States are increasingly focusing on drive-thru models to capture a larger market share. Notable players like Dutch Bros, Starbucks, and Dunkin' are adapting their strategies to include more drive-thru locations, capitalizing on consumer demand for quick and convenient service.
According to reports from Placer.ai, small coffee chains have seen a market growth of 77.6% from 2019 to the first quarter of 2026, while midsized chains expanded by 149% in the same period. This growth is partially fueled by the smaller footprints of these establishments, which allow them to occupy high-traffic suburban areas with ample space for drive-thru lanes.
Leading the charge is Dutch Bros, now the third-largest coffee chain in the U.S. by sales and locations. The company aims to add 181 new stores in 2026, with a goal of reaching 2,029 locations by 2029. Similarly, Arkansas-based 7 Brew plans to open 340 new locations, targeting a total of 1,000 outlets within the next year.
The average size of a Starbucks store is approximately 2,200 square feet, while Dutch Bros and 7 Brew typically operate in spaces just over 900 square feet and 650 square feet, respectively. This smaller size allows them to expand rapidly across multiple locations.
Drive-thru-focused operators seek locations on busy streets with enough space to accommodate lines of cars. To manage the high demand, some companies have implemented double drive-thrus to keep the flow of customers steady and reduce waiting times.
In urban areas traditionally dominated by Starbucks, local and regional operators are gaining ground. While Starbucks plans to open 600 to 650 new stores in 2026, fewer than 200 of these will be in the U.S., indicating a shift towards international growth.
The diversification of beverage offerings is another factor contributing to the growth of these chains. Dutch Bros and 7 Brew offer a wide range of drinks, including customizable energy drinks and colorful, candy-like beverages, appealing to a broader customer base.
