G I N.
Yelp
2019-06-03. Starbucks, Partridge Creek.
OK so the last review I had on Starbucks focused on their new rewards program. In short I said that it was an improvement for Coffee drinkers, and a slight detriment to those who prefer the more complex drinks. This was due to their cost based rewards. Extras on custom orders can now be redeemed for 25 stars; a coffee just 50 stars, a hand-crafted drink 150 stars; a meal sandwich or salad 200 stars; and for 400 stars you can redeem for a store item like a tumbler or coffee mug. I see the use of smaller amounts of stars beneficial to those that don't frequent Starbucks as often; but as I noted before, the true winners are those that like their cup of jo. Whether it be strong and black, hot or cold, sweet or creamy, it's now at the mere affordable cost of 50 stars. But wait there's more... the one thing I didn't mention in my last review is that the Starbucks rewards program did away with their gold status and the 300 star required annually to maintain gold.
So what does that mean? Well, with Gold status, you got certain perks like free customization, free refills on coffee or tea, a free reward on your birthday, and your very own customized Gold Card. Now, Starbucks essentially made everyone gold members, but they took away some of the perks, mainly the free customization (it costs 25 stars now); but everyone gets to enjoy free refills on coffee and tea (even if you purchased a customized drink, you can now get a free coffee or tea chaser!), and everyone gets a free food or drink item on their birthday (essentially up to 200 stars worth). No need to worry about trying to get 300 stars a year any longer, everyone's a Gold member.
So does this improve my opinion of the program? I'd say so, it's definitely a step in the right direction for Starbucks. My gut feeling is this will definitely help them increase their market share of java drinkers all over North America... at least until they change their program again... but until then, 4 stars from me...
OK. Now a quick blurb on this Starbucks location... It's small, and it's a gold mine. Every time I come here, the place is absolutely packed. Smaller than most Starbucks, the place only seats about 20, but they have outdoor seating in common areas of the mall, so it works (at least when the weather is nice). Inside, it's super loud mainly due to the small size and volume of people. Decor is your standard Starbucks, tiled floors, unisex restrooms, high top wooden tables with Metal chairs, and walls covered in pictures of anything to do with coffee beans.
If You would like to experience more, come dine-with-me.yelp.com I'd love to have your company... Bon Appétit!