In their quest to better legitimize (and kinda sorta monetize) their PokéStops, Niantic Labs has partnered with the coffee behemoth, Starbucks in a move that will turn 7,800 Starbucks locations into PokéStops or Gyms. The event is currently happening only in the US, but if this takes off, it could very well lead to more. Starbucks announced the news on their official website, while also announcing a brand new limited-time drink to celebrate the partnership.
Here's an excerpt from the announcement:
"By locating a Starbucks® store within Pokémon GO, players will discover the Pokémon GO Frappuccino® blended beverage. The Pokémon GO Frappuccino® starts with a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino® blended beverage and raspberry syrup blended with freeze-dried whole blackberries and topped with whipped cream. It's the perfect treat for any Pokémon Trainer on the go."
I'm more of a Java Chip guy myself, but I might give this one a whirl at some point. PokéStops and Gyms have evolved into controversial aspects of the game, as players have turned a variety of public places into unwanted areas of play. Malls, war memorials, and apartment parking lots have all been problematic at one time or another, so it seems as though Niantic has little choice but to partner with big businesses to keep the game thriving.
Source: [Starbucks]
