Starbucks knows it’s my Birthday, and I get a free drink.

I love that Starbucks knows it is my birthday and rewards me. It is a way to connect with me in a personal way. I probably give my birthday date to numerous businesses each year, from healthcare to Credit card companies, credit unions to airlines. My insurance agents remember, because it is time to raise my insurance rates.

Although my birthdate is required at so many places, even with technology, AI and Siri, few actually acknowledge or remember it’s my birthday.

So back to Starbucks: I remember that Starbucks remembers my birthday, and every year I’m reminded and rewarded by its courtesy. So when someone says to me, why do you pay so much for a cup of coffee, I say: “Loyalty, attention to detail, consistency and it’s a damn good latte.”

And wish Starbucks a happy birthday on March 31.