Starbucks is notorious for being on the more expensive end of coffee shops, and despite this notion, it is still perhaps the most popular coffee chain in the world. Its patrons may visit multiple times a week, or even multiple times a day, and because of this, their bills can add up quickly. But there are ways to get around some of these higher costs, and there are plenty of little things you can do to get the most bang for your buck.
Tips and Tricks
There are plenty of little ways to make the most of your purchase:
Social Media
Another way to get additional savings on Starbucks products is to follow them on their social media profiles--Facebook, Twitter, Google+, etc--for still more great deals. These are advertised exclusively on these profiles for special added benefits for their social media followers.
For example, one recent Facebook post offered a discount on their loyalty program which lasted for a limited time. One of their recent Google+ posts advertised a $5 credit and bonus stars when you buy coffee for the home, which also lasted a limited time.
Another way to save money and enjoy perks at Starbucks, particularly if you are a frequent patron, is My Starbucks Rewards.
What Is My Starbucks Rewards?
The My Starbucks Rewards program is a way for you to save on future purchases at Starbucks by earning points, or "stars," each time you buy drinks or food. The Rewards program is free to join, and the card can be used in the form of a debit card. There is also a mobile app that you can use at the counter; your barista will scan your phone for you to earn your star.
Once you register your account, you will be able to use the card or mobile app for each purchase to earn stars. For each 12 stars, you will earn a free $5 credit that can be redeemed for drinks and food at participating stores in the U.S. and Canada. You must have your card or mobile app available at time of purchase to earn a star.
You earn only one star per purchase. If you buy more than one drink in a single purchase, it will still only count for one star. You can only earn a star when using the Rewards card, which you can reload at any time on the Starbucks website. You won't be able to earn a star if you pay with cash, credit card or debit card.
For eligible new members, you'll receive a $5 credit when you first use your card. You should expect a wait of three to four business days for the credit to appear on your account.
To sign up for Starbucks Rewards, visit the Starbucks website.
Rewards Levels: Welcome, Green and Gold
You can keep track of your stars and reward credits by checking your account online. Your barista will not tell you if you have a reward waiting for you, so be sure to check back regularly. If you collect a certain number of stars in a designated length of time, you can earn what's called Gold Level or Green Level status.
You begin at the Welcome status. This includes your first $5 credit when you make your first purchase and a free food or drinks credit on your birthday. To maintain your Welcome status, you must earn at least one star each year.
To achieve Green Level status, you must have earned five stars. In addition to your birthday credit, you also get free refills of brewed and iced coffee or tea. To maintain your Green Level status, you must continue to earn five stars in each 12-month period.
To achieve Gold Level status, you must have earned 30 stars in one year. In addition to the birthday credit and free refills, you will earn a free $5 credit for every 12 stars that you earn. You can also opt in to get special offers and coupons sent by mail, email or text message.
As soon as you reach Gold Level status, your benefits will kick in, but you'll have to wait four to six weeks for your personalized Gold Card and Welcome Kit. You do not have to use your Gold Card to enjoy the benefits, as your Gold Level account will be linked too all of your Rewards cards.
Each year on your anniversary date, your purchases will be evaluated. If you have not maintained 30 stars or more in that timeframe, you will lose your Gold Level and return to Green Level.
Bonus Stars
Bonus Stars are a way to get more stars toward a $5 credit faster. Periodically, Starbucks will offer Bonus Star promotions to their Rewards members. During this time, certain items will be featured, and if you purchase one of these items, you will earn one star for your overall purchase and one more star for the purchase of that bonus item. This helps you earn free food and drinks faster.
Expiration Dates
When you receive rewards, you can opt in to receive postcards as notification of your free $5 credits. On these postcards, you'll find an expiration date for that $5 credit, so be sure you use the credit in the 30 days allotted. You can also check that expiration status of your credit on your online account.
Brew at Home
Still another way to save at Starbucks is to brew the coffee on your own at home. Bags are available at Starbucks locations, in grocery stores and on the Starbucks website. They also sell special machines and products to make your home brewing experience complete. You can even have the beans ground in-store to make the process a little easier. With a little extra work, you can get the same taste of Starbucks for as little as $.30 a cup. Also be sure to check the coffee package for a Starbucks coupon before you throw it out.
My Starbucks Idea
Want to suggest changes to the Starbucks customer's experience or different ways for Starbucks to offer even more savings? Go to MyStarbucksIdea.com to share and discuss all of your ideas with other users. The latest idea is an app that allows you to thank your barista after you order. Try it and see if yours will be implemented next!
The My Starbucks Rewards program is a great option if you are a frequent Starbucks patron. You'll earn free drinks and food and enjoy other exclusive benefits, so you won't want to miss these potential savings.
You can find even more deals for Starbucks at BluePromoCode.
