Starbucks is changing its rewards scheme, and customers will need to spend more to get free items. Under the current rules, guests earn ten stars for every £1 spent. From September 3, the number of stars required for various rewards will increase.
What's Changing?
For a free filter coffee, americano, or hot tea, the required stars rise from 130 to 150. That means instead of spending £13, customers will need to spend £15. For bakery items like croissants, cookies, and muffins, the star requirement increases from 300 to 350, with the equivalent spend rising from £30 to £35.
Handcrafted beverages, such as lattes, mochas, matchas, and frappuccinos, will now require 600 stars instead of 500, so the spend needed goes from £50 to £60. Selected merchandise, including mugs and cups, will need 1,150 stars instead of 1,000, meaning a spend of £115 rather than £100.
Starbucks Explains the Change
In an email to customers, Starbucks said: “Last year, we were delighted to expand the range of items you can redeem with your Stars. Starbucks Rewards offers benefits beyond free drinks, and we continue to invest in the programme, with more member benefits to come. To help ensure Starbucks Rewards continues to deliver great value, we’re updating the number of Stars required to redeem certain Rewards.”
The criteria for Gold Level membership, achieved at 2,500 stars (a £250 spend), remain unchanged. Gold members still get perks like a free birthday drink. Customers can check their star balance in the Starbucks app.
Unicorn Frappuccino Coming to UK
Separately, Starbucks is bringing its viral Unicorn Frappuccino to the UK for a limited time. The drink, which went viral in the US ten years ago, features peach and mango flavours with a blue raspberry drizzle, topped with whipped cream and pink and blue sprinkles. It will be available from August 15 to 17, with prices starting at £5.60 for a Tall size. A matching cake pop, priced at £3.30, will also be available.
