March 23--Starbucks will introduce a prepaid card that will allow customers to earn rewards outside of its cafes.
The reloadable debit card will be available by the end of the year, officials said at the company's annual meeting Wednesday. It will be usable anywhere Visa is accepted.
In February, the Seattle-based coffee chain revamped its loyalty program to reward customers for dollars spent, as opposed to the number of drinks purchased. Under the new plan, customers earn 2 stars for every dollar spent. It takes 125 stars to earn a reward in the new program.
The new program will take effect on April 12, along with more changes to Starbucks' mobile app. In addition to a new look, the app will allow users to redeem rewards via mobile ordering for the first time. Rewards currently can only be redeemed in-store.
sbomkamp@tribpub.com
