"Starbucks Leads the Way with Early Pumpkin Spice Latte Return, Kicking Off Fall Season"
Starbucks is bringing back its Pumpkin Spice Latte on Thursday, marking its 20th year in existence. Despite fall being a month away and record-breaking temperatures, the popular drink's return comes earlier than ever. Dunkin' Donuts released its pumpkin spice drinks and bakery treats on August 16. The Pumpkin Spice Latte helped create a $500 million industry, and Starbucks Reserve locations will offer specialty fall beverages. The PSL's success can be attributed to social media, and pumpkin spice became a phenomenon after Starbucks introduced the drink. Starbucks estimated selling over 424 million Pumpkin Spice Lattes in the U.S. alone since its launch.