a loyalty program that turned oat milk lattes into a slot machine you can't stop pulling.
means a points-based system where money spent on starbucks converts into stars, which eventually convert into free drinks and food.
from launched in 2009 as a simple loyalty card, it went digital and gamified in 2011 when starbucks realized mobile payment plus points equals addiction, then overhauled its stingy tiered system in 2019 after users revolted over how many stars a latte actually cost.
starbucks rewards visa card — jpmorgan partnership launched 2023 to stack stars on everyday spending
double star days — periodic promos that spike app traffic and drive-thru lines nationwide
green apron challenge — internal baristas gamify it too, racing to hit personal star goals