How Starbucks Customers Can Take Advantage of a New Discount

Starbucks is stepping up its efforts to reduce their waste. The popular coffee chain announced on its website that, beginning January 3, its offering a discount to customers who bring their own reusable cup for in-store, drive-thru, and mobile orders. Participating locations will give customers a 10 percent discount when they present their clean, reusable mug for use with any beverage purchase.

But there are a few guidelines to be aware of before you head to your local Starbucks with your favorite cup in hand. The company stresses that the cups should be both clean and reusable, so a disposable plastic cup won't do. The offer is also only available at company-operated stores and some licensed locations in the United States and Canada. Starbucks stores that are located within other retail establishments such as Target or WalMart may or may not allow you to bring your own reusable cup. 

Starbucks makes it easy to order using your reusable mug. For in-store orders, simply present your mug to the barista at time of ordering. If ordering via drive-thru, let the barista know you’re using a reusable mug and then have it ready sans lid when you pull up to the window. If ordering on the app, select the “customization” option, select “personal cup," and bring your cup with you.

The initiative is part of Starbucks’ plan to reduce waste by 50 percent by 2030. It is the only national coffee chain in the U.S. to offer customers a reusable cup option and the first in Canada to offer reusable cups on mobile orders.

Starbucks has stepped up its game in recent months to compete with McDonald’s spin-off CosMc’s, which hopes to take a slice of the coffee chain's demographic. In December, Starbucks added several new drinks including the Merry Mint Mocha to its holiday menu in a bid to attract more customers.