Starbucks’ rewards program—My Starbucks Rewards (MSR)—debuted a couple years ago and incentivizes its customers to keep coming back. The rewards program offers value to its regular customers and the details of the program will be explained below.

Howard Schultz, the CEO of Starbucks, revolutionized the way Americans consume coffee over a decade ago. The same business formula had made its way to mainland China and so with it, its products and rewards program. My Starbucks Rewards works differently compared to the rewards program in the US. In the US, customers simply register for an account after purchasing a Starbucks gift card, meaning its membership has no extra costs. However, in China, customers will need to purchase a card, an 88 RMB decorative card that you then link to a MSR account. Although it sounds pricey at first, it’s actually a very decent value if you are a regular.

Each card when registered carries with it introductory electronic coupons for customers to use, including: multiple buy one get one free beverages, one free size upgrade, and one free morning drink. With every 50 RMB spent, members are rewarded one star, accumulated over time to receive more benefits. Once you reach the Green Level (5 Stars), members are entitled to receiving one free beverage when purchasing three in a single transaction as well as a free birthday beverage. Accumulate even more stars and you will reach the Gold Level (25 Stars), where members receive a personalized Gold Card and some other extra benefits. From time to time, there will be promotional discounts, like 20% off certain food items.

The benefits are certainly worth it if you frequent cafes on a regular basis. A single MSR card purchase already pays for itself when you use a few of the coupons. Also, when your coupons run out, you may purchase another card and have it linked to your account. That’s a never-ending stream of value if you go to Starbucks often.