Today Starbucks announced the launch of mobile payment in all U.S. company-operated stores, allowing customers to pay for in-store purchases with select smartphones. Customers now have access to the largest mobile payment program in the U.S. and the fastest way to pay at Starbucks. This national program now includes nearly 6,800 company-operated stores and more than 1,000 Starbucks in U.S. Target locations. Starbucks noticed that one in five transactions are made by Starbucks card and that their customers often use their smartphones while waiting in line. In fact, according to figures from the Wall Street Journal, Starbucks cards showed a 21% growth last year, driven in part by its rewards program as $1.5 billion were loaded onto the card in 2010. At the end of the fourth quarter in 2010, Starbucks reported a profit increase of 86% worldwide. In a combination of speed and convenience, the company worked to create something to please. Enter the Starbucks Card Mobile App. The app is free to download and works with the company’s Starbucks cards. Once a card is added, the user can manage their Starbucks card account, track rewards, reload their balance via credit card or PayPal, and even locate stores. Customers can pay by a bar code appearing on the phone. When placed under a 2D scanner located at the register, the customer is able to make a swift and easy payment.
