*Update: I asked the baristas at the store who told me to call corporate, I called and spoke to corporate who told me to contact the store. I called the store and spoke with the manager who said they can’t refund because it was partial payment with stars, and to contact corporate. I contacted corporate via chat, the agent was rude, refused refund, and said he’d share my experience with the store for a learning opportunity, ha. So I went to BBB, and contacted their corporate that way, and got a refund of my stars and money, and it didn’t even take long. Absolutely insane that I had to do all of that.
Original review: I recently had an incredibly frustrating experience at Starbucks that I feel compelled to share. I ordered two sugar plum danishes through the mobile app, but upon checking in at the speaker, I was informed they were out of stock. When I requested a refund, I was told to proceed to the window. To my surprise, the lady there tried to hand me someone else's order.
When I reminded her of the refund, she seemed irritated, asking what I ordered and how I paid. I explained one was paid with stars and the other with a Starbucks card. She responded dismissively, claiming she didn't know how to process it and asked another employee who suggested calling corporate. This was frustrating, as my past experience with corporate directed me back to the store for refunds.
Upon contacting corporate, I was unsurprisingly instructed to return to the store. When I called and spoke with the store manager, a more understanding individual, he suggested alternatives like a store credit. However, the issue of refunding stars remained a corporate matter.
My frustration stems from the convoluted processes, especially given Starbucks' non-franchised structure. The separation of app and store processes seemed outdated and inconvenient, especially when facing inventory issues beyond the customer's control. In a world where technology drives convenience, it's perplexing that the app lacks the capability to cancel an order, automatically refunding payments as it does with in-store purchases.
This experience left me questioning Starbucks' commitment to customer satisfaction. The outdated methods and lack of a streamlined process raise concerns about valuing customers. It's disheartening that, despite the detailed steps I've followed
I believe Starbucks should empower its stores to cancel app orders, automatically initiating refunds for both star and card payments, similar to in-store purchases instead of leaving customers feeling undervalued and even raising questions about the efficiency of Starbucks' operational methods.
As a long-time customer, I'm disappointed in the lack of a streamlined approach and still...
Read moreIf you’ve ever ordered Starbucks, you know it’s a gamble—either you get a perfectly crafted drink, or you’re out here sipping disappointment because money doesn’t grow on trees (but Starbucks prices sure make it seem like it does).
The Experience: A Game-Changer at the Drive-Thru
I stopped by Starbucks in Woodmore Town Center around 6 PM on Sunday with my boyfriend, and let me tell you—the drive-thru staff was on point. Customer service can be hit or miss at times, but this time? 10/10. The girl at the intercom was so helpful and actually saved me from overcomplicating my order.
I was about to copy some TikTok drink hack, but she suggested I just get: ☕ Gingerbread Chai Latte (hot) with oat milk & vanilla cream cold foam And honestly? Best decision ever.
My boyfriend ordered: ☕ Grande Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino ☕ No whip on top or bottom ☕ 3 pumps of brown sugar syrup ☕ Vanilla sweet cream foam
And listen—the barista who made these drinks? A STAR.
The Barista Who Deserves a Raise
I don’t know her real name, but her cup tag is Kikibeanz. The drinks were PERFECTION—better than any we’ve had at other locations. We even tried another Starbucks afterward, and let’s just say… it wasn’t giving what it was supposed to give.
The Final Touch: A Personalized Affirmation
To top it all off, she wrote an affirmation on my cup. Now, I don’t care if she writes it on every single order—it made me feel special, and that’s what matters! It truly set the tone for my evening.
Final Thoughts:
✅ Amazing customer service (shoutout to the drive-thru girl!) ✅ Drinks made to perfection ✅ Personal touch with an affirmation that made my day ❌ If Kikibeanz isn’t working, just come back later.
Woodmore Starbucks, y’all need to give this barista a bonus because she’s the reason we’re loyal now. If you’re coming here, pray she’s on shift. Otherwise, proceed...
Read moreThis is in a busy shopping center. Although theres additional parking theres not much storefront. Ive noticed the drive thru line can be long at various times. This is not my preferred locale but it is close to home. On this particular day, Saturday evening 4:10 pm. I was getting gas and had to literally pass by so thought Id save gas and time by placing a mobile order as I always do. Placed the order, at 4:10 pm, to be picked up at drive-thru, was given a pickup time of between 3-6 minutes which was good indication that maybe the store isnt too busy. I was already on Campus Drive. When I arrived at the drive thru there was small line, I was inside the parking lot not in the lane in front of store so not too bad. WHY!!!!??Did I not get my drink in hand and leave window at 4:40 pm?? Live and learn. I will not be returning. Of course the extra ice i ordered was melted. I saw an employee arrive while waiting so not sure what was delaying the line. Plus it’s a huge indention in drive thru line that you have to press on gas to get through.
I normally drive to Baltimore ave or Crofton although theres 4 stores within 3 miles of me. All have specific reasons I dont visit anymore. I can literally drive to Baltimore ave and have my drink in hand within 20 minutes and it’s...
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