Starbucks invites some beta testers to check out their new rewards program on the web3.
Starbucks is launching its blockchain-based loyalty program and NFT community, Starbucks Odyssey, to its first group of American beta testers.Starbucks is launching a new initiative that includes coffee-themed NFTs that let customers earn points towards in-store experiences. The company’s previous loyalty program, Starbucks Rewards, is being integrated to highlight how the program can be applied to virtual tokens and blockchain.
Earlier this year, Starbucks announced an upcoming rewards plan with more ways to earn benefits and perks than the ones offered. Instead, Odyssey introduces a new platform where customers can engage in interactive activities called “Journeys” This solves the problem of not being able to be rewarded for everyday purchases. The rewards are also collectible stamps, which is less geeky than it sounds.
The Journeys are designed to promote the Starbucks brand, coffee and company history. They could include different activities, like watching videos or quizzes; solving puzzles or playing in store. The former is way more interesting than another corporate NFT initiative, as it’s really connected with Starbucks’ loyalty program and other goals. Mobile payments are also an integral part of the project that makes it stand out in all sorts of ways.
In the case of Journeys tied to in-store purchases, Odyssey members would scan their existing Starbucks Rewards card when purchasing the required drink or menu item, and that activity would then be shared back with Odyssey, earning the member points.
At around 500 points, members will earn Stamps — that is, a coffee-themed NFT hosted on the Polygon blockchain. These Stamps also unlock special experiences. There are three levels of benefits and experiences that can be unlocked. At the lower end, these could be online experiences, like a virtual class that teaches you how to make espresso martinis, or provides access to unique artist merchandise. Gaining more points and NFTs will allow you to access all kinds of neat rewards. From special events hosted at Starbucks Reserve Roasteries, to coffee farm visits in Costa Rica…whatever you’re into!
Your points accumulate over the course of a year and reset. But you’ll still retain your NFTs, which will later be integrated with the Starbucks app. This will allow customers to customize their Starbucks Card or print it on other merchandise.
As the Odyssey program launches into beta, the first Journey Stamps will include those designed with inspiration from Starbucks’ history, like its first location in Pike Place Market in Seattle; others will feature classic designs and this year’s “Gift-Wrapped Magic” holiday cup art.
The company declined to confirm how many customers are on the waitlist but said that demand had “far exceeded” its expectations.
It will now be testing Odyssey with a small number of users who were previously on the waiting list. This will allow them to offer feedback and let them experience what it’s like right off the bat. It can then adapt the program based on their experiences/requirements and make necessary changes before launching it more publicly. Users will get notified if they’re being invited into the beta, then have three days to join. If they don’t, they’ll return to the waitlist for a future invite.
They are doing this so they can tweak it before releasing it fully. If a user is invited to the beta, they will be emailed and have three days to join. If they don’t, they will return to the waitlist for a future invite.
When you sign in to the Odyssey program, it’s straightforward and easy to navigate.Either way, there are plenty of tutorials that’ll take you through how everything works before getting down to making content.The first invitation is being sent to a small group of Starbucks waitlist members today.It should be sending monthly invitations to a larger group in January 2023.
