It’s been an interesting year so far for Starbucks. With their new logo and all the surrounding controversy, then it’s latest “Trenta” size (I’m still not sure how anyone can drink that much coffee) and now a new innovative payment method utilizing iPhone and Blackberry apps.
The app is available to anyone who owns an iPhone or Blackberry for free and is currently being implemented in 6,800 stores throughout the US after being piloted in Seattle, LA, and New York. Users found the card to have the fastest transaction speed and lowest customer wait time, according to Brady Brewer, VP of the Starbucks card and brand loyalty.
This seems to me like a great way to speed up the process of coffee runs for people in plenty of situations. Whether it be running to the local Starbucks in your 10 minute break from work, or just heading out for a coffee with friends. You won’t even need to bring your wallet with you anymore.
The app works by scanning a barcode connected to your Starbucks cards and also allows people to track their reward points; Starbucks cards can also be easily refilled directly from your phone via Paypal or credit cards.
My only concern with this method of payment would be the possible privacy issues surrounding such a simple process. Although, considering the amount of different app’s people already have on their phones and the security available (password locks) it seems like it would be pretty safe. Despite the fact you might buy twice the amount of coffee with the simplicity of the process and lack of line ups.
Welcome to 2011..
4 comments:
The new "Trenta" size coffee at Starbucks seems a little ridiculous to me. I agree with you. Who needs that much coffee??? Will someone actually even finish one that size?
As for the new payment option, I find that great! I think Starbucks is doing everything possible to market their product. They are trying to target audiences of all demographics and are doing a great job of this! I for one, do not always have my wallet one me but sadly always have my cell phone. With this new payment option, I can already tell Starbucks is going to steal even more money from me!
Good news for Starbucks...Bad news for me...
I think the payment option is the first of many that we will see in 2011. I can think of plenty of times where i have run into a store to buy something; get tot he cashier and relize that i dont have my wallet....but ofcourse, i always have my phone.
Its a great idea and im curious how other companies will use it
This is it ... 2011 will bring mobile purchases into consumers hands, minds and pockets. It's amazing! I'll be following this closely !
I know in Japan, people are using their cell phones to pay for parking and even buy items at certain vending machines. It's kinda cool how Starbucks is taking the lead and starting this wave in North America.
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