Starbucks Pokémon Collaboration
Starbucks Japan and Pokémon Launch Barista-Created Latte and Exclusive Merchandise Collection
Anonymous
Key Points
1
The winning latte was created by Junko Nitta of Starbucks Coffee’s Koriyama Asaka store, who was named champion of the barista contest.
2
The latte will be sold in Tall size only, for ¥678 to go or ¥690 for dine-in.
3
The latte is scheduled to be available from September 30 to October 8, while most of the merchandise will be sold through Starbucks Japan’s online store from September 30 to October 2.
4
The collaboration is themed around “Connection Over Coffee Adventures,” and the new artwork follows Pokémon characters and Starbucks baristas exploring coffee together.
5
The collaboration is part of Pokémon’s 30th-anniversary year, which has also included a coffee partnership with Suntory’s BOSS Coffee.
Starbucks Japan is launching a major Pokémon collaboration on September 30 featuring the Pikachu Honey Cream Latte and 41 themed merchandise items IGN. The limited-time drink blends honey and caramel with honey-flavored whipped cream and a heart-shaped topping inspired by Pikachu's cheeks. The latte was created by barista Junko Nitta after winning a nationwide contest that drew over 700 recipe submissions.
The collection is part of Pokémon's 30th-anniversary celebration Toy People and includes drinkware, bags, aprons, and coffee equipment featuring original artwork. Most merchandise will sell online from September 30 to October 2, while the latte runs through October 8 in Tall size only for ¥678 to go or ¥690 for dine-in.
Barista Contest Winner Inspired the Pikachu Drink
The Pikachu Honey Cream Latte emerged from a competitive selection process Nordic IGN. Starbucks Coffee ran a nationwide barista contest that received more than 700 recipe submissions from employees across Japan. Six finalists competed, and Junko Nitta from the Koriyama Asaka store won the championship with her honey-forward creation.
The winning recipe combines iced espresso with honey and caramel syrup Screen Rant. A honey-flavored whipped cream tops the drink, decorated with a heart-shaped element that mimics Pikachu's distinctive pink cheeks. This unique design makes the latte instantly recognizable to Pokémon fans.
41-Piece Merchandise Collection Launches Online
The collaboration includes 41 items across drinkware, bags, and coffee equipment Toy People. Featured products are Kanto Starter Bottles, a Poké Ball Straw Tumbler, reusable coffee cups, mugs, aprons, a milk frother, and posters. All artwork was created by illustrator Hikaru Ichijo with original Pokémon designs.
Most merchandise sells exclusively online from September 30 to October 2 Pocket Tactics. A few items may have extended availability, but supplies are limited. Customers who purchase the Pikachu Honey Cream Latte will also receive a collaboration sticker while stocks last.
Connection Theme Ties Coffee to Pokémon Adventures
The collaboration is branded around "Connection Over Coffee Adventures" Screen Rant. Original illustrations show Pokémon characters and Starbucks baristas exploring coffee together, creating a shared story between the two brands. This thematic approach goes beyond simple product placement to celebrate both franchises.
The partnership fits into Pokémon's busy 30th-anniversary year Toy People. The creature franchise has partnered with other beverage makers, including Suntory's BOSS Coffee, to reach fans through everyday products. Starbucks Japan continues its tradition of exclusive regional collaborations that drive customer engagement and merchandise sales.
Sentiment
Mostly PositiveNEGATIVENEUTRALPOSITIVE
Publishers
18
Articles
11
Reach
29
Topics
A
AnonymousAuthor
