10 Best Point Based Loyalty Programs and What Makes Those Programs Successful?

Customer Loyalty programs have transformed how businesses interact with their customers, providing a powerful tool to enhance customer loyalty, drive repeat purchases, and foster long-term relationships. According to Queue-It, members of the Loyalty program create 12–18% greater yearly incremental revenue growth than those who aren’t.

Among the various types of loyalty programs, point-based loyalty programs have gained significant popularity due to their effectiveness in incentivizing customer behavior and rewarding loyalty. This article will delve into point-based loyalty programs, exploring ten of the best programs available today.

Through a comprehensive analysis of their unique features, benefits, and areas for improvement, businesses can gain valuable insights to enhance their loyalty initiatives and deliver an exceptional customer experience.

Point-based Loyalty Programs Explained

1. Jelly Belly Loyalty Program

Jelly Belly’s Sweet Rewards loyalty program is a free program that rewards customers for shopping with Jelly Belly. Customers earn 10 points for every dollar they spend on Jelly Belly products and can also earn points for completing other activities, such as writing product reviews, following Jelly Belly on social media, and referring friends to the program.

Point System:

• Members earn 10 Points for every dollar spent on Jelly Belly products, whether in-store or through the website.
• The program also has three tiers — Rookie, MVP, and All-Star.
• Customers can reach the first tier after accumulating 1000 points.

Benefits of the Program:

• Free ground shipping on orders above $45.
• 10% off on the Jelly Belly confections category.
• Free 40-flavor gift box on orders above $45 for all-star members.
• Members can also redeem their points for various candy coupons.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The Jelly Belly “Sweet Rewards program” succeeded by offering a points-based loyalty system with a simplistic interface, attainable tiers, attractive benefits like free shipping and exclusive gifts, and diverse earning options. It is free to join and allows flexible reward redemption, making it inclusive and appealing to a broad customer base.

2. DefenAge Skin Club Rewards

Do you know that 75% of customers in loyalty programs will purchase more items from the firms with which they have partnered? And DefenAge’s business records are real proof of this!

DefenAge is a popular point-based loyalty program example within the beauty industry. Driven by scientifically proven practices and backed by the world’s leading dermatologists, DefenAge has won 9+ elite awards in the beauty Industry.

Point System:

• Members get 75 points as a welcome bonus, member-exclusive pricing after login, and an exclusive gift with the first purchase.
• Members also earn 1 point for every dollar spent on DefenAge products and 75 points for sharing DefenAge on social media.
• The brand also awards points for writing positive reviews and bonus points on birthdays.

Benefits of the Program:

• Two-week supply of 8-in-1 BioSerum with any purchase of $45+ on joining DefenAge® Skin Club.
• Members enjoy the Fly Kit as a gift once they reach Perfection Platinum status.
• VIP members can receive a gift of any individual-sized product on their anniversary.
• Members can also redeem their points for various e-gift cards.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The program offers a multi-faceted approach to rewards, combining generous welcome bonuses, diverse point-earning methods, and exclusive perks. This scientific credibility and commitment to evidence-based beauty solutions set it apart in the industry, making it a distinctive and trusted choice for customers seeking effective skincare. Furthermore, flexibility in reward redemption further enhance its appeal to customers.

3. Stride Rite Loyalty Program

Stride Rite is a popular kid footwear brand owned by Wolverine Worldwide. The retail stores of Stride Rite are primarily located in large regional shopping malls in major metropolitan areas throughout the United States, offering various point-based loyalty program benefits through the Little Loyals rewards program.

Point System:

• The loyalty program follows a point-based structure, with members earning 1 point per dollar spent.
• Members are awarded 75 points on signing up.
• Once members earn a specific number of points, they can level up to get better rewards and experiences.

Benefits of the Program:

• Members can redeem points for discounts on purchases.
• Stride Rite also offers surprise double & triple points days for members to earn bonus points.
• The brand offers birthday rewards for both members and their kids.
• Members also get free shipping and early access to sales.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The Stride Rite Little Loyals loyalty program employs a straightforward point-based system, offering 1 point per dollar spent, with 75 points upon sign-up. The tiered rewards structure system encourages customer spending for better rewards. Versatile redemption options, surprise bonus point days, and personalized birthday rewards create a compelling loyalty experience. Free shipping and early sale access further enhance the program’s appeal, catering to their target audience of kid’s footwear shoppers.

4. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan is an award-winning airline loyalty program that rewards members for their travel with Alaska and partner airlines. It has gained recognition for its point-based loyalty program benefits, especially its customer-centric approach and excellent redemption options.

Point System:

• Members earn miles every time they fly with the airline based on the fare class purchased.
• Members can earn and use Mileage Plan miles to travel with Oneworld Alliance and Global Partners to over 1,000+ destinations worldwide.
• Get Mileage Plan miles for qualifying bookings with participating hotels and cruises.

Benefits of the Program:

• Free flights and flight upgrades based on the number of miles accumulated.
• Priority boarding and access to exclusive airport lounges.
• Waived baggage fees and other travel-related perks.
• The ability to earn miles through partner airlines and non-airline activities, such as credit card spending.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan succeeds due to its flexible and customer-centric approach. Members can earn miles through various activities, including flying with partner airlines, booking hotels and cruises, and credit card spending. This versatility in earning, combined with valuable benefits like free flights, priority boarding, and lounge access, creates a compelling and rewarding loyalty program for travelers.

5. IHG One Rewards

IHG One Rewards is a well-established point-based loyalty program in the hospitality industry, encompassing many hotels and resorts. It has been recognized for its extensive benefits and robust customer engagement strategies.

Point System:

• Members earn 10 points for every dollar spent at IHG properties and for other eligible expenses within the hotel.
• The brand also awards members 5 points for every $1 spent at Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites.
• The number of points accumulated determines the member’s tier level and unlocks various benefits and privileges.

Benefits of the Program:

• Complimentary stays at IHG Hotels and Resorts are based on the points earned.
• Room upgrades, late check-out, and other exclusive privileges.
• The ability to earn points through non-stay activities, such as credit card spending and partner collaborations.
• Each year, members earn Milestone rewards every 10 nights, after the first 20 nights.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The IHG One Rewards program thrives due to its robust point system, offering 10 points per dollar spent at IHG properties and tier-based benefits. Members can earn points through diverse activities, like credit card spending and partner collaborations. Milestone rewards and a wide range of privileges, including complimentary stays, room upgrades, and late check-outs, enhance its appeal and foster strong customer engagement.

6. Target Circle Rewards

Target Circle is a point-based retail loyalty program offered by the retail giant Target, aiming to enhance the shopping experience for its customers. It has gained popularity for its personalized offers and exclusive discounts.

Point System:

• Members earn 1% back on every eligible purchase made at Target, both in-store and online.
• Additional points can be earned through special promotions and personalized offers.

Benefits of the Program:

• Discounts on future purchases based on the points accumulated.
• Personalized deals and recommendations tailored to the member’s shopping habits.
• Early access to sales events and exclusive product launches.
• The ability to support local communities through targeted charitable giving.

What Makes the Program Successful?

Target Circle’s success lies in its customer-centric approach. Members enjoy discounts, personalized deals, and recommendations that align with their shopping habits. Early access to sales and exclusive product launches enhances the shopping experience. The program’s unique feature is its support for local communities through charitable giving, reinforcing Target’s commitment to social responsibility. This holistic approach fosters strong customer loyalty.

7. Walgreens Balance Rewards

Walgreens Balance Rewards is a point-based loyalty program offered by the Walgreens pharmacy and convenience store chain. It aims to reward customers for their purchases and encourage healthier choices.

Point System:

• Members create point-based loyalty programs to earn points for every eligible purchase made at Walgreens stores or online.
• Bonus points can be earned through specific promotions and activities, such as filling prescriptions or participating in wellness programs.

Benefits:

• Discounts on future purchases based on the points accumulated.
• Free products and exclusive offers for program members.
• The ability to redeem points for health and wellness-related rewards.
• Personalized recommendations and tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

What Makes the Program Successful?

Walgreens Balance Rewards succeeds by combining customer incentives with a focus on well-being. The program offers points for everyday purchases, bonus points for health-related activities, and meaningful rewards like discounts and free products. It promotes healthier choices through wellness-related redemptions and personalized lifestyle recommendations. This holistic approach appeals to a wide customer base, fostering both loyalty and a commitment to healthier living, making it a successful and customer-centric loyalty program in the pharmacy and convenience store industry.

8. Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest Rapid Rewards is the loyalty program of Southwest Airlines, known for its customer-friendly policies and generous rewards. It has gained a solid following among frequent travelers for its simplicity and flexibility.

Point System:

• Members create point-based loyalty programs to earn points based on the fare type and the ticket price purchased with Southwest Airlines.
• Points can also be earned through partner activities, such as car rentals, hotel bookings, and credit card spending.

Benefits of the Program:

• Free flights are based on the number of points accumulated.
• A-List and A-List Preferred status, offering benefits such as priority boarding and bonus points.
• Companion Pass, allowing a designated companion to fly for free on all Southwest flights.
• No blackout dates or seat restrictions for point redemptions.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The Southwest Rapid Rewards program offers a simple and flexible point system tied to fare type and partner activities, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. The benefits are valuable, including free flights, A-List status, and the highly sought-after Companion Pass. The absence of blackout dates and seat restrictions further enhances its appeal. This customer-friendly travel loyalty program has attractive rewards making it a successful and beloved loyalty program among frequent travelers.

9. My Best Buy

My Best Buy is the loyalty program the consumer electronics retailer Best Buy offers. It aims to provide personalized shopping experiences and exclusive benefits to its members.

Point System:

• Members earn points for every dollar spent at Best Buy stores, online, or through the mobile app.
• Additional points can be earned through special promotions and bonus point offers.

Benefits of the Program:

• Reward certificates are based on accumulated points, which can be used toward future purchases.
• Exclusive member-only discounts and early access to sales events.
• Free shipping and extended return periods for select members.
• Dedicated customer support and personalized product recommendations.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The My Best Buy loyalty program follows a straightforward and customer-centric approach. Reward certificates, exclusive discounts, and early access to sales events provide tangible value to members. Free shipping and extended return periods enhance the shopping experience. The program’s focus on dedicated customer support and personalized product recommendations fosters strong customer engagement, making it a successful and appealing loyalty program.

10. Ulta Beauty Ultamate Rewards

Ulta Beauty Ultamate Rewards is a point-based loyalty program tailored for beauty enthusiasts. It has gained popularity for its comprehensive benefits and exclusive offers and has risen up as one of the top beauty loyalty programs.

Point System:

• Members earn points for every dollar spent on qualifying purchases at Ulta Beauty stores or online.
• Bonus points can be earned through special promotions and events.

Benefits of the Program:

• Discounts on future purchases based on the points accumulated.
• Free beauty products and samples as members reach different point thresholds.
• Birthday gifts, exclusive offers, and invitations to member-only events.
• The ability to earn and redeem points on salon services offered at Ulta Beauty locations.

What Makes the Program Successful?

The success of Ulta Beauty’s Ultamate Rewards program lies in its alignment with the interests of beauty enthusiasts. It offers a straightforward point system, bonus point opportunities, and a variety of benefits, including discounts, free products, and exclusive perks. The program also taps into the personal aspect with birthday gifts and member-only events. Moreover, the inclusion of salon services extends its appeal, creating a comprehensive and attractive loyalty experience for customers in the beauty industry.

Conclusion

Point-based loyalty programs have revolutionized customer engagement strategies, providing businesses with an effective tool to drive customer loyalty and enhance the overall customer experience. While each program has unique features, benefits, and areas for improvement, they all share the goal of rewarding customer loyalty and fostering long-term relationships.