Brewing Up Business: Starbucks’ Latest Sales Promotion Strategies
Starbucks has been a coffee staple in the United States since it opened its first store in Seattle’s Pike Place Market in 1971. Since then, the chain has expanded around the world, offering more than just coffee. As Starbucks continues to grow, it has had to develop new sales promotion strategies to remain competitive in the market. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the latest marketing strategies from Starbucks and how they’re keeping their business brewing.
Introduction
Starbucks is a company that always managed to stay ahead in the business world by constantly evolving its marketing strategies. With the rise of competition in the coffee industry, Starbucks has continued to innovate and create new ways to attract customers. The company is known for its unique approach to marketing and sales promotion. From loyalty programs to seasonal drinks, Starbucks always has new ideas to keep its customers coming back for more.
Loyalty Rewards
One of Starbucks’ most successful sales promotion strategies is its loyalty reward program. This program has been around since 2009 and allows customers to earn points, or “Stars,” for every purchase made with a registered Starbucks Card or through the Starbucks app. The more Stars a customer earns, the higher their level within the program. With each level, customers get access to more rewards, such as a free birthday drink or free add-ons to their order.
Starbucks’ loyalty reward program keeps customers returning to the store and encourages them to spend more money with the company. The program has become so popular that it now has more than 16 million active members in the United States alone. Additionally, Starbucks has grown the program by offering bonuses and promotions to members, such as double-stars for certain purchases or early access to new products.
Seasonal Drinks
Every year, Starbucks releases seasonal drinks such as the Pumpkin Spice Latte or the Peppermint Mocha during the holiday season. These beverages are only available for a limited time, which creates a sense of urgency among customers who want to try them before they’re gone.
The excitement around seasonal drinks drives customers into the store, and Starbucks uses this to its advantage by releasing limited edition merchandise, such as cups, tumblers, and gift cards. This merchandise creates even more hype around the seasonal drinks and can be a profitable sales promotion in addition to the beverages themselves.
Mobile Ordering
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key for many customers. Starbucks recognized this and developed the Mobile Order & Pay feature in its app. This feature allows customers to order and pay for their drinks ahead of time, so their orders are ready when they arrive at the store.
Mobile ordering has been especially popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it allows customers to place their orders without standing in line or handling cash. The ease of use and speed of the app make it a popular choice for busy customers who want a quick and easy way to get their Starbucks fix.
Branding and Corporate Social Responsibility
Beyond just innovative sales promotions, Starbucks also focuses on branding and corporate social responsibility to attract customers. The company is known for its commitment to ethical sourcing, and it has implemented various initiatives to support coffee farmers and communities around the world. Additionally, Starbucks has updated its branding to reflect its values, including eliminating straws and reducing waste.
Starbucks’ dedication to sustainability appeals to customers who want to support businesses that are environmentally responsible. By promoting these values and making them part of its brand, Starbucks has managed to attract a loyal customer base that appreciates the company’s social responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Starbucks offer any discounts for large orders?
Yes, Starbucks offers a 10% discount on orders of 10 or more beverages. This discount is applied automatically when the order is placed.
2. How do I earn Stars in the Starbucks loyalty program?
Customers can earn Stars by making purchases at Starbucks with a registered Starbucks Card or through the Starbucks app. The number of Stars earned depends on the amount spent, and higher levels within the program offer bonus Stars for purchases.
3. Can I order Starbucks drinks for delivery?
Yes, Starbucks has partnered with various delivery services, including Uber Eats and Postmates, to offer home and office delivery of its beverages and food items.
4. Is Starbucks eco-friendly?
Starbucks has implemented various initiatives to promote sustainability and reduce waste, including eliminating straws and promoting the use of reusable cups. Additionally, the company is committed to ethically sourcing its coffee and supporting coffee communities around the world.
5. Does Starbucks have a birthday program?
Yes, Starbucks offers a free birthday drink or food item to loyalty program members during the month of their birthday.
