Admittedly, reward schemes are shrewd marketing strategies designed to keep customers loyal to particular companies and brands. And they are completely effective. A Statista study found that, in 2024, the average American had about 19 active memberships in loyalty programs, but only regularly used about nine of them. And most likely, at least one of those nine was for a well-known coffee chain. Following all, over 70% of U.S. S. . According to the National Coffee Association, people drink coffee once a week.
While both programs are free to join, you can only sign up for Dutch Bros.’ reward program if you have the app, whereas Starbucks allows you to sign up both online and through the app. After creating an account, you’ll see that Dutch Bros only offers two reward options because it primarily sells drinks and a limited selection of snacks, so you can only redeem drinks here.
Starbucks, in contrast, offers more than ten options. When it comes to drinks, beverage customizations, food, and merchandise, the company’s rewards selection is unquestionably superior. Starbucks is by far the best in terms of the quantity of benefits you receive. Everyone can enjoy its wide range of rewards options, even those who don’t drink coffee.
How does Starbucks rewards program work?
At Starbucks, rewards can be earned in two primary ways. First, you can earn a star each time you use a saved payment method in the app or pay with cash, debit, or credit in-store. Furthermore, the app does accept PayPal as a payment method. You will receive two stars, though, if you use your Starbucks digital card—a reloadable gift card—to make your purchase through the app. Additionally, you receive double stars when you use a Starbucks gift card in the app to pay or place an advance order.
You should be aware that only participating locations will accept your rewards before attempting to use them. You can exchange your rewards for a wide range of items once you locate a place that accepts them. You can ask for a pump of syrup or an additional shot of espresso for 25 stars. When you reach 100 stars, you can choose from a pre-packaged snack (like madeleines or a perfect bar), tea, brewed iced or hot coffee, or a bakery item. For 200 stars, you can choose from a hot breakfast item or any handcrafted drink, including any of the beverages from Starbucks’ new spring menu. You can get a bag of Starbucks coffee, a sandwich, or a protein box for 300 stars. Lastly, you can choose Starbucks items that are under $20 in value for 400 stars.
As you accumulate stars, you will also receive benefits from all three of Starbucks’ partners. When linked to a Starbucks account, Bank of America cardholders receive bonus stars and 2% cash back. When you link your Starbucks and Delta SkyMiles accounts, you will receive additional miles on your travel days for each $25 purchase made on your digital Starbucks card. When you connect both accounts, you’ll receive double stars for a few stays at Marriott Bonvoy hotels
How does the Dutch Bros rewards program work?
There are many things you should know about Dutch Bros., but the most crucial is that the company’s rewards program accounts for the majority of its sales. Dutch Bros. offers you an incentive to join right away because of this. Every new member receives a complimentary medium drink, which is valid for 14 days after joining. A coffee, latte, smoothie, ice tea, lemonade, shake, hot cocoa, energy drink, or sparkling soda can all be obtained for free.
Paying with the Dutch pass, which functions similarly to the Starbucks digital card, or using the app both earn points. Gift cards or credit cards are other options for payment if you do not have the Dutch pass. Plus, placing an order in advance or paying in person will still earn you points. For every dollar spent, you will always receive three points regardless of the payment method you select.
Unfortunately, there are only two reward tiers in Dutch Bros. 250 points can be redeemed for a complimentary medium drink, or 325 points can be used for any menu item. You can also personalize your drink with any of the flavors, toppings, or milks that Dutch Bros. sells in-store when you receive the latter reward. Moreover, these rewards come with a cool perk. You can give others a free drink to make their day better after sharing your points with them. To further enhance the app experience, Dutch Bros. rewards you with virtual stickers each time you finish an in-app challenge or try something new.