Starbucks Teams Up With Lyft to Boost Loyalty Program

By Julie Jargon 

Starbucks Corp. is teaming up with ride-sharing service Lyft Inc. in the coffee giant's newest effort to expand its loyalty program beyond its cafes.

Under the deal, riders and drivers who use Lyft's mobile app, which facilitates carpooling, will be able to earn Starbucks loyalty "stars," which can be redeemed for food and drinks at Starbucks outlets.

Expanding the use of Starbucks points program is a key growth initiative for Chief Executive Howard Schultz, who hopes it will both attract new customers and enhance the loyalty of existing ones. In May, for example, the coffee giant announced plans to team up with music-streaming service Spotify, whose subscribers will be able to earn Starbucks stars.

Starbucks also is pressing other digital initiatives to fuel growth, such as offering customers in several markets the chance to order and pay for purchases using mobile devices.

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