Is Starbucks spelling your name wrong on purpose? Here’s one theory

If you go to Starbucks from time to time, it’s probably happened to you.

After the barista tells you that your order is ready, you glance down at the cup and see an unfamiliar spelling of your name. For example, “Myke” instead of “Mike” or ‘Mali’ instead of ‘Molly.’ 

Theory: Starbucks misspells names for free advertising 

Read more: 7 cheap brands of coffee that people really love

Starbucks is a busy place, so most people understand how this can happen with unusual names, but the Internet is puzzled by misspellings of common names.

The YouTube channel Super Deluxe has one theory: They’re doing it on purpose.

While this theory has not been proven, Super Deluxe suggests that baristas misspell names because it amounts to more free advertising for the coffee chain.

How so? When people notice the misspellings, they share pictures like this on social media: 

Barista: "Did you say 'Kristen?'"
Me: "No, with a T"#soclose #notreally #starbucksfail pic.twitter.com/B1zI2MORVj

— Tristan Fortsch (@tristanCF) December 2, 2016

According to Mirror Online, a Starbucks spokesperson said they don’t tell anyone on staff to purposely misspell names of customers, but this conspiracy theory lives on!

Ways to save at Starbucks 

If you love the taste of Starbucks’ coffee but not the price, you could always buy a bag of coffee on sale at the grocery store and brew it at home.

When you do stop by a Starbucks, here are some tips to help you save:

1. DIY iced lattes: Order a triple espresso over ice, Venti size. Add some milk, and you have a latte for less than $3.
2. Score cheap refills: You may be able to get your cup refilled for just 50 cents. You are limited to hot coffee, hot tea, iced coffee or iced tea.
3. Bring your own cup: Help the environment by using your own cup. You’ll also knock 10 cents off of your purchase.
4. Upsize it: Order a Tall drip in a large cup. That gives you more room to add milk and still pay for a Tall.
5. Ask for less ice: Order your drink with half or no ice so that you get more drink in your cup.

See 10 more money-saving hacks at Starbucks.

Common Cents: How to reduce your expenses to increase your income