Starbucks to Roll Out New Pay Ahead by Smartphone Option

The program will be launched by the end of 2015

By Karl Utermohlen, InvestorPlace Writer Oct 17, 2014, 3:57 pm EDT October 20, 2014

Starbucks (SBUX) is releasing a new method of ordering coffee that allows you to pay ahead with your smartphone.

The coffee chain’s Mobile Order program will be launched across the U.S. by the end of 2015. Starbucks said that the program will be introduced in the Portland area by the end of 2014.

The “pay ahead” option is simple and effective — all you have to do is order your favorite Starbucks drink on your smartphone beforehand and you’ll be able to pick it up later without standing in line.

The company is encouraging Starbucks mobile ordering with its “free drinks for life” offer that 10 lucky customers will get.

About 15% of Starbucks purchases are made with mobile devices.

SBUX stock is up 1.5% Friday afternoon.

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