Visitors to Starbucks in Saudi Arabia can now justify their caffeine addiction with a sweeter deal.
When ordering pumpkin spice latte, iced cold brew, or any other fancy customized drink, customers are now able to collect points or stars via a free app introduced to the Kingdom.
As in other countries, customers obtain stars according to how much they spend. Every SR10 ($2.66) spent will be worth four stars, and once 250 have been collected a free drink of choice can be claimed.
A total of 750 stars, which is the gold level, affords a free drink on the birthday of the customer plus access to exclusive offers and benefits.
People can download the app, add their name and then scan the QR code at the store after making their order.
As yet, the system is not as efficient as in the US where one of the perks of using the Starbucks app allows orders to be placed in advance and drinks to be customized. Users can also choose their nearest store, size of drink, add or remove any syrups or additions, and even request a sandwich to be warmed.
The order can then be collected, conveniently packed with the customer's name attached. Credit card details can be inputted to give the option of direct payment.
The Saudi version does not currently offer either of those options. It is simply an app to collect or redeem stars, and people cannot order on the app or pay directly using it.
However, improvements to the app are expected soon.
