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Starbucks wanted people to get more curious about their capsule flavours. But how do you tempt someone to try a coffee they can’t see, sip, or, most importantly, smell? Capsule coffee is sealed tight. No scent, no seduction, no chance to let the aroma do its magic. So a trick was borrowed from the beauty aisle and Starbucks Scent Sticks were created ,  just like perfume samples, but for coffee. Each one was infused with the rich notes of a specific flavour.  Caramel, hazelnut, bold espresso, sweet vanilla... all without firing up a machine. And because great scent should lead to great taste, each stick doubled as an instant discount voucher, redeemable at partnering retailers.

© 2025 Ilse Fertig, Creative Strategist. All rights reserved.

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