How can you get a free refill at Starbucks? Everything you need to know

Café company Starbucks seems to have good news for customers. Starting January 27, 2025, café-goers can enjoy free refills in-store within the participating locations in the US and Canada. As per reports, this change is part of CEO Brian Niccol’s plan to win back customers' trust and overcome sales struggles.

Previously, the free refills used to be only for the loyalty customers but now it’s for everyone. To get a free refill, customers must remain inside the store as the offer is not valid for to-go orders. Besides that, baristas will be writing the names on the cups again. The new change in policies will also see the return of the familiar milk and sugar stations at the outlets.

It must be noted that the free refill offer will only be applicable for certain orders and not all. The news of the free refill was also shared by Starbucks through a press release on January 27, 2025. The company wrote:

“Starting January 27, when you order any beverage “for here” it will be served in a coffee mug, glass, or in your clean personal cup brought from home. During your visit to that cafe, you will also be able to enjoy free refills of hot brewed or iced coffee, or hot or iced tea.”

Additionally, Starbucks offers free refills on hot and iced brewed coffee or tea during the same visit to the participating stores. This excludes beverages like Cold Brew, Nitro Cold Brew, Iced Tea Lemonade, flavoured iced teas, and Starbucks Refreshers bases. The initial purchase must be made using a reusable cup or in-store serveware.

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Starbucks has also implemented a ‘Coffeehouse Code of Conduct’

In the press release, the café company mentioned that it is focused on ensuring spaces like cafes, patios, and restrooms for customers and employees. To support this, they’ve implemented a Coffeehouse Code of Conduct. The code is displayed in stores to remind visitors of the shared responsibility of maintaining a welcoming and inclusive community environment.

The Coffeehouse Code of Conduct outlines expectations for respectful behaviour, discouraging misuse, discrimination, harassment, violence, or disruptive activities. Specific restrictions include no outside alcohol, smoking, vaping, drug use, or panhandling.

Anyone not adhering to these guidelines may be asked to leave, with law enforcement involved if necessary. This initiative aims to promote a safe and enjoyable experience for all. While mentioning these changes, Starbucks wrote:

“Our green aprons are on, our playlists are ready, and our mugs are waiting to be filled and refilled with the finest Starbucks brewed coffee. So, pull up a chair, grab your favorite drink and stay awhile.”

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The changes also saw the reintroduction of creamer, milk, and a variety of sweeteners to the condiment bar where customers can customize their beverages. They can ask a barista for assistance if their preferred option isn’t available. Previously, Brian Niccol expressed his vision for stores to become welcoming places where customers can enjoy the signature sights, smells, and sounds of the brand.