Starbucks Updates Loyalty Program with New Rewards Tiers

Beginning April 16, Starbucks will have an updated structure for its loyalty program. The new Starbucks Rewards program will be set up as a tiered structure, where users earn different rewards based on how many points they have earned.

The current rewards system offers 2 Stars (rewards points) per $1 spent. After 125 Stars, members can redeem their points for eligible food or drink purchases. The new structure still carries 2 Stars per $1, but there are additional redemption opportunities:

• 25 Stars = Dairy substitute, extra espresso shot, or an additional drink flavor
• 50 Stars = Hot tea, hot coffee, or select bakery products
• 150 Stars = Handcrafted drink, yogurt parfait, or hot breakfast item
• 200 Stars = Protein box, lunch sandwich, or salad
• 400 Stars = Packaged coffee or select merchandise

Signing up for the Rewards program is free, and members can earn Stars on their first visit. Members also receive a free birthday treat each year, as well as free refills on brewed hot coffee and tea.

Last year, Starbucks launched the Starbucks Rewards Visa Prepaid Card and the Starbucks Rewards Visa Card. Both offer enhanced rewards in addition to the standard loyalty program. For instance, with the prepaid card, users earn an extra 125 Stars after loading $10 or more onto the card. With the credit card, users earn a 2,500 Star bonus after spending $500 in the first three months.

Under the new loyalty program, Stars earned with the Rewards Prepaid Card or the Rewards Visa Card will not expire.