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Starbucks prices are increasing again. According to a Starbucks representative, Starbucks will charge extra when you customize your Refreshers with little or no water. This Starbucks Refresher cost change is a headache for customers and employees (who have to enforce it) alike. The change is expected at all Starbucks locations.

KCL initially reached out to Starbucks HQ when it was rumored that requests for no water and no ice in Refreshers would result in additional charges. However, a Starbucks spokesperson responded that their ice policy will remain the same (meaning no extra charge — whew!).

We’ll let you know why the change is happening and how to avoid the charge. Especially considering this comes right on the heels of the Starbucks Rewards changes earlier this year. Those program changes make getting free Starbucks more difficult. Is it too late to jump on the WaterTok trend for less?

Here’s everything you should know about this price increase and how it will affect your future Starbucks orders.

For more smart shopping tips and savings hacks, text HACKS to 57299.

 

Starbucks Refreshers with ‘no water’ will cost an additional $1.

Starting today, May 9, it’s expected Starbucks will change their customization options for Refreshers. When you request your order with no water, you’ll be charged an additional $1. Here’s what a Starbucks spokesperson had to say about the new charge:

“Starting May 9 there will be an additional cost of $1 for Starbucks Refreshers Beverages customized with no water, as this customization requires extra ingredients. This change allows us to provide a more consistent approach to customization, similar to other beverage customizations such as an adding an espresso shot or syrup which incur an additional charge. Starbucks Refreshers Beverages can still be customized with light or no ice free of charge.”

 

You won’t have to pay extra for ice/water customizations on other Starbucks drinks.

The good news is that despite early social media reports, a Starbucks representative has gone on record to say they are not going to charge for less or no ice on any of their drinks — Refreshers included.

Related: Get In on the #WaterTok Trend for Trendy Hydration

 

 

Avoid the Starbucks Refreshers charge by picking up Starbucks drinks at your grocery store.

In April 2023 the Starbucks grocery line expanded and began distributing the Pink Drink and Paradise Drink Refreshers to outside retailers. Not only are these drinks generally cheaper than purchasing them at your local Starbucks, but you can control the amount of ice in your drink too.

Here are the Starbucks Refreshers that you can get in grocery stores:

 

Starbucks Refreshers With 'No Water' Will Cost $1 More