34M Downloads in 2022: 4 Starbucks App Features Your Coffee Shop Needs

There's no denying that we've entered a digital age where technology is king, especially in the restaurant industry. Today, 25% of Starbucks’ transactions are processed through their mobile app, and they say that their digitally engaged customers purchase 2-3 times more products. With customers constantly seeking convenience, speed, and efficiency, having a mobile app for your restaurant is no longer a luxury; it's a necessity.

Here are 4 features your coffee shop's mobile app needs to have.

Mobile Ordering & Payment

Starbucks' app lets customers browse their menu, place an order, and pay for it in advance so they can skip the line in store. Users can load money onto their Starbucks preloaded card and use it for purchases in the app. Or, users can link their credit or debit cards to the app and pay by scanning their app-generated barcode at the register.

Mobile payment also integrates with the Starbucks Rewards program. With every purchase made through the app, stars are automatically added to the user's account, based on the amount spent. So, no more forgetting loyalty cards or numbers.

Want this for your own customers? Craver can create your restaurant or coffee shop its own custom-branded mobile app, wrapped in your branding. Your app will have an easy payment feature, so customers can place orders within your app and pay using Apple Pay, Digital Wallet, or a saved credit card. Users also have the option to pre-load a balance onto their account. 

Order Personalization

Starbucks' app gives users a personalized experience by letting them customize their drinks, save their preferences, and create favorite orders. This level of his level of customization makes it super easy for customers to order exactly what they want, instead of shouting out "venti iced caramel macchiato with almond milk, two extra shots of espresso, three pumps of caramel syrup, and light ice" in front of the entire store. The app also gives them personalized recommendations based on their order history, so users can discover new menu items that they're sure to love.

With a Craver app, customers can upgrade their order (make it a large), add-on extras (an extra shot of espresso please), or make it a meal (I'd like a drink with that). Encourage your customers to increase their spend by suggesting extra toppings, sides, or drinks that pair well with their order. Craver apps also save order histories and modifications, so users can re-order their favourites with a single click. If they always order a one-milk-one-sugar coffee, it's saved in the app. 

Loyalty Program

The Starbucks Rewards program is a key reason for the app's success. Starbucks Rewards has almost 30 million members and over half of Starbucks sales are driven through the program. If that doesn't prove loyalty programs work, nothing will. Members collect stars for every purchase and can swap them for free drinks, food, and merchandise. By pricing 2 stars at $1, Starbucks have made sure that all customers will have an easy time racking up stars at a decent pace. The app tracks stars and gives users personalized rewards based on their purchasing behavior.

If that sounds good, give it a go yourself. Craver’s built-in loyalty program lets your customers can earn points, check their points balance, and see how far away they are from their next reward. Craver apps also offer a referral program option, to bring in new users. You can choose the reward your referrals will receive, like $5 off their next app order, or their next coffee on the house.

App-Exclusive Promotions

Starbucks often uses app-exclusive promotions and limited-time offers as incentives for customers to download and keep using their app. These include discounted or exclusive drinks, bonus stars, or special rewards for app users, which drive app sign-ups and engagement.

With Craver’s push notifications feature, you can notify customers of rewards, discounts, upcoming events, new menu items, or whatever you'd like. The notifications show up on your customer's lock screen, giving them a little nudge to engage you. 

So, as you see, there's a lot to learn from industry giants like Starbucks. But the great news is, you don't have to be a multinational chain to access the same technology. With Craver, you can bring those Starbucks-level features to your local coffee shop's app. And the best part? Craver is designed with local businesses in mind. All plans are all commission-free with no setup fees, and no long-term contracts; meaning you can give your customers the same digital experience without breaking the bank. So, why wait? Find out more here.