Starbucks turn Social Media into So-Cool Media

It’s hot outside, we’re all broke and the only addictions we can afford are the ones that involve clicking on tags from Andrew’s party last Friday. So, the magic question is: How can brands get us out of our bedrooms and onto the High St? And how can they get us to loosen the purse strings in these tough times? Well, they should offer us real value, in places where we will see it, at prices we can all afford. And they should make our lives a little more enjoyable, even if only for a fleeting moment.

Starbucks in the US have come up with an idea that does just that and one that should get people engaged, dressed and down to their stores faster then you can say Skinny Frappucino: from the 6th of July they have been giving away free ice cream on their Facebook fan page. You can’t run from it, you’re on Facebook, you’re hot and the little luxuries that you had to sacrifice for bills, like premium ice cream, might just provide that little piece of escapism that you’ve been craving.

The campaign to promote the product is simple: Facebook as the vehicle, ice cream as the incentive and summer for its time of delivery. All of which encourage sharing.

The choice of Facebook as the sole vehicle, as opposed to multiple platforms (which is tempting but often unsuitable), is perfect given the sharable nature of the site and it’s ability to cater for rich media, such as glorious pictures of said product. The offer is limited to 20,000 pints of ice cream and although this sounds like a lot there are a lot more hot people on Facebook than that.

All it requires is the user to log on, sign up, suggest a mate and at the top of the hour grab the coupons on offer, but remember, it’s all about sharing so bring out your generous side.

Here’s the link if you’re interested…US residents only might I add! Sorry.

http://apps.facebook.com/starbucksicecream/