There has been a considerable growth in apps for smartphones, and mobile devices. Most recently, there has been a focus on transportation apps like Uber and Lyft. Corporations have taken note in the rising popularity of these apps and are looking to get in on this popular trend. Most recently, ride-sharing service Lyft embarked on a multi-year deal with Starbucks Coffee Company.
“With Lyft’s presence in 65 cities across the U.S., where we also have Starbucks serving the same communities, we knew this relationship would benefit our partners, Lyft’s drivers as well as our mutual customers who are already coming to Starbucks and using Lyft services,” said Adam Brotman, chief digital officer, Starbucks.
Coffee is the most important ingredient to the start of your work day. And, now you can reward your Lyft driver with a cup of joe, and have the opportunity to earn Starbucks loyalty stars redeemable for food and beverages at participating Starbucks stores. However, noticeably absent from the deal is Lyft’s number one competitor Uber. Uber has been getting a lot of press recently in a battle with NYC Mayor De Blasio’s proposed restrictions. However, how do the two services compare? I have personally used both Lyft and Uber- and find that I generally prefer Lyft. I encounter a lower rate of issues with Lyft drivers than I do with Uber drivers. Issues ranging from rejected pickups by the drivers, unjustifiable charges (which the company will quickly adjust), and overcharging due to a driver’s decision to take a longer unnecessary route to get you from point “A” to “B” (also something that the company will quickly adjust). Both apps are similar and easy to use. Both apps use GPS to help you locate a driver closest to you, and view their profile. Both apps allow you to earn ride credits by referring friends. However, the fact that I can now earn points towards free food and drinks from Starbucks makes Lyft a bit more attractive.
John Zimmer, co-founder and president of Lyft said it best. “There are two things most of us do every morning: get a cup of coffee and commute to work. Together with Starbucks, we can make both a friendlier, more enjoyable experience,” “Lyft and Starbucks share a lot of the same customers and importantly we share a commitment to doing right by our customers and our people. In the days, months and years ahead, we will launch exciting programs for loyal community members, and new products that will change the way we move around our cities.” So stay tuned, because there is certainly more to come!
There are undoubtedly a myriad of apps available to the everyday consumer. And as technology continues to advance the availability and functionalities of these apps will surely continue to surprise us.