Starbucks is set to make a change that could impact loyalty program members who bring their own cups. Beginning June 24, the coffee chain will discontinue its 25-star bonus for customers using reusable cups. Currently, Starbucks Rewards members receive this bonus, but going forward, they will earn double stars on their entire order instead.
Under the existing system, members earn one star for every dollar spent before tax. A typical drink earning nine stars, for example, would provide a total of 34 stars when the reusable cup bonus is included. With the new policy, that same order would result in just 18 stars.
A Starbucks representative confirmed to Business Insider that the company will continue offering a $0.10 discount when customers bring their own cups. This shift may slow down the rewards accumulation for customers who usually order a single drink, while those buying higher-priced items like sandwiches may benefit from quicker earnings.
This is just one of several changes made by Starbucks since CEO Brian Niccol took office in September. The company has recently adjusted its menu options, expanded shifts at some locations, and introduced handwritten messages from baristas on single-use cups.
Starbucks aims to encourage the use of reusable cups to reduce single-use plastics, enhancing its sustainability efforts. Additionally, the company now accepts reusable cups for drive-thru and mobile orders as part of its initiatives.