A Starbucks employee has shared the simple act that will always see customers walk away with a free drink – but according to them, it’s not something everyone is keen to try
A Starbucks barista has explained a simple customer habit that they say often results in free beverages.
Coffee shops continue to be a staple of high streets everywhere – and everyone has their preferred spot, be it a renowned chain or a charming independent café. Starbucks, with its impressive global presence of approximately 40,000 outlets, is undeniably one of the most popular choices.
Cafes serve as ideal settings for friends to catch up, workers to recharge during a hectic day, or simply as a haven for those seeking a few moments of solitude. However, for staff, the experience can be much less relaxing.
Customer service roles can be challenging, and navigating the diverse temperaments of patrons can prove tricky. When customers exhibit politeness and friendliness, it can significantly brighten an employee’s day – and might even earn them a complimentary treat.
It pays to be kind
Not all interactions are positive, though. One Starbucks barista recently expressed frustration after receiving a one-star review from a customer following an encounter they had hoped would go differently. The barista took to Reddit to share a screenshot of the negative feedback left by a customer named Emily.
The customer’s irate review read: “As someone who came every single day, I will never come here again. My card didn’t work on the app (which is weird [because] I had money) and the guy who checked me out was rude about it and said I needed to hand it back but I could ‘keep the water for free’ [what]? ?? All over a four dollar drink – y’all lost a lifelong customer.”
The barista, in turn, offered their perspective, saying: “It was at the drive through, she was driving a Tesla. She got a $7 latte and a water. None of her cards worked and then she asked me, ‘I come here everyday, can I just pay for it tomorrow?’, all I said was ‘No.’
“NOTHING ELSE! She gave me the drink back unprompted, because I was actually [going to] let her have it, because she already had it. And I felt bad for her. She gave it back, and drove away. But then a few hours after my shift, someone sent me this. You can’t win being a partner.”
This story resonated with other baristas and coffee shop workers who joined the conversation. One person commented: “That’s funny because if you’re nice the barista will generally give it to you. I forgot my wallet once and they just gave it to me free. Made a regular for life because of that. You know she was annoying if they asked for the drink back lol.”
The barista who posted the original story then replied, affirming their initial intent: “My intention was to just give it to her since she already had it. But now that I see who she really is, I’m so glad I didn’t.”
Another added: “I actually had a barista pay for my drink once, because I had planned on using my cash due to my card being left at home. Turns out I was short a dollar and the barista said ‘I gotchu’ and paid for the rest. I’m still trying to catch him on a shift so I can buy him a drink!”
