The line at the ASU Memorial Union Starbucks can take half an hour to wait in. That’s thirty minutes, and about $3 - $5, for a cup of coffee and sugar. But considering how much it costs to brew a pound of coffee, add milk, and produce plastic cups in bulk, that price is much, much higher than the actual worth of the coffee. Subtracting estimates of employee pay, running the store, and rent, Starbucks makes about 60¢ per $3.65 Grande Cappuccino. Actual coffee farmers who grow and harvest the beans don’t profit very much from this trade; rather, the middlemen and whoever is renting locations out to Starbucks walk away with a significant amount.
The point is, you’re spending too much on coffee, but you’re not going to stop going to Starbucks, so here’s how you can pay less for the same drinks.
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1. REFILLS
Most people come to Starbucks to get their drink and sit down to do work, talk with friends, etc. This is a great thing, because as long as you don’t leave the premises, you can get a 50¢ refill on any iced or hot coffee/tea regardless of what you originally drank!
2. Bring Your Own Container
Not only is this better for the environment, but Starbucks will charge you 10¢ less if you bring your own mug, thermos, etc.
3. Drink Manipulation
This is the most fun one by far. Instead of paying for an iced latte on a hot day, order three shots of espresso over ice in a venti cup, and then use the milk that Starbucks gives you FOR FREE at the extras counter to latte-fy your drink. Or add your own cinnamon to a normal chai. Check the prices, and plan accordingly!
4. Easy on the Ice
Always get light ice. Always. You’ll be getting about twice as much actual coffee/tea when you reduce the amount of ice you order; almost two-thirds of your cup can be wasted on ice, depending on your barista.
Happy caffeinating!
