Maybe not all that stunning given the downturn in curiosity in Web3 and NFTs amongst massive manufacturers, Starbucks introduced right this moment that it’s shutting down its Web3 loyalty program Odyssey.
The Odyssey program allowed members to realize advantages by way of taking part in video games and collaborating in actions known as Journeys. Once they accomplished Journeys, members earned factors and obtained NFTs (known as Journey Stamps) that gave them entry to unique advantages. Members may additionally buy restricted version NFTs, which supplied them with extra Odyssey factors and distinctive paintings.
In accordance with an FAQ about this system’s transition, Starbucks says they’ll shut the Odyssey beta on March 31, 2024, and customers may have till March 25, 2024, to finish any remaining Journeys. The corporate says it is going to transition the Odyssey market to the Nifty NFT market, the place customers can purchase, promote, and switch Odyssey stamps. As a part of the transfer, the corporate mentioned they’re additionally shutting down the Odyssey discord server on March 18.
The hassle was shepherded by the previous Starbucks chief digital officer Adam Brotman by way of his firm Forum3. Like many Web3 startups previously 12 months, Brotman and his cofounder Andy Sacks have made a tough pivot from Web3 to generative AI as their main focus, with their new tagline being “The place AI Meets Digital Transformation.”
Some crypto websites have requested whether or not this system will return, and whereas Starbucks left the door open in its FAQ with a bland stay-tuned message – “Whereas the Starbucks Odyssey Beta program is ending, we’re excited so that you can see what comes subsequent and are grateful to your constant engagement and suggestions” – my guess is the corporate seemingly will de-emphasize issues like tradeable NFTs even when it appears to be like to make use of some type of underlying blockchain structure sooner or later.
