Starbucks, like most coffee shops, offers a loyalty scheme designed to keep you coming back for more.
Firstly, as with all loyalty apps, it’s usually worth having them if you’re a regular user of the shop or service. However, don’t let it trick you into going more often just to “get the benefit” of something like a free drink. I know from experience how easy it is to start going back purely to earn rewards, which ultimately costs you more.
With that said, going somewhere that offers a loyalty scheme and then not using it at all feels like leaving money on the table. Yes, you are sharing some data about your shopping habits, but for me, the benefits are generally still worth it.
So what does Starbucks actually offer to reward your loyalty? Let’s take a look.
Compared to simpler schemes like Caffè Nero—where you collect stamps and get a free drink after 10 purchases—Starbucks is a bit more complex.
Instead, you earn 10 Stars for every £1 you spend.
Perk 1: Earn Stars on every purchase
You earn 10 Stars for every £1 spent, which can then be redeemed for rewards.
⭐ 130 Stars
- Filter coffee
- Hot tea
- Americano
⭐ 300 Stars
- Bakery item (e.g. muffin, croissant, pastry)
⭐ 500 Stars
- Any handcrafted drink (e.g. latte, cappuccino, Frappuccino)
⭐ 1000 Stars
- Starbucks merchandise (e.g. cups, tumblers, accessories)
- At-home coffee (where available)
It’s also worth noting that it costs the same number of Stars regardless of the size you choose. So, if you are redeeming, you may as well go for the largest size available—called a “Venti”.
In terms of value, the sweet spot is usually 500 Stars, where you can redeem a full handcrafted drink. That said, 130 Stars for a filter coffee or Americano can also offer solid value.
Perk 2: Gold Level benefits
Once you reach Gold Level, you unlock a couple of additional perks.
1. Birthday Drink
This does exactly what it says on the tin—you get a free drink on your birthday each year. A good opportunity to maximise value by choosing something a bit more premium.
2. Free extras
Gold members also get free extras such as additional espresso shots, selected syrups, and whipped cream.
However, it’s not cheap to reach this level. You need 2,500 Stars, and with 10 Stars earned per £1, that means spending £250 per year. You’ll also need to requalify each year to keep your Gold status.
So, is it worth it?
Overall, the scheme does offer some genuine opportunities to save money—alongside that satisfying feeling of claiming a “free” drink.
But the key thing to remember is this: don’t chase the reward.
If you’re already buying coffee regularly, then absolutely take advantage of the scheme. But if you find yourself going out of your way just to earn Stars, it’s probably costing you more than you’re saving.
Use it smartly, and it works. Use it mindlessly, and it does the opposite.
You can sign up here: Rewards | Starbucks
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