The Magic Essence of Loyalty Points:
Loyalty points serve as a powerful tool for businesses to cultivate customer loyalty and encourage repeat purchases. They create a sense of value and appreciation for customers, motivating them to choose your business over competitors. However, while many business owners understand the concept of issuing loyalty points, very few understand the true impact and how much potential lies in how these points are redeemed.
Unlocking Future Value:
The beauty of loyalty points lies in their ability to offer customers more than just a one-time discount. Instead, they provide the promise of future value, enticing customers to continue engaging with your business to unlock rewards and benefits. Each time a customer makes a purchase, they accrue points in their loyalty account, gradually working towards redeeming rewards that align with their preferences and needs.
Managing Redemption: Full vs. Part Redemption:
There are two primary methods through which businesses can manage the redemption of loyalty points.
LOW-COST FULL REDEMPTION:
Straightforward and Simple:
The first approach, known as "Low-Cost Full Redemption," allows customers to use their accumulated points to cover the entire cost of an item or service. For instance, if a customer has earned 10,000 points valued at £100 based on a 10% rewards rate, they can use these points to purchase a £100 product from your store.
This method offers a seamless and straightforward way for customers to enjoy the benefits of their loyalty to you.
NO-COST PART REDEMPTION:
No Cost with Combining Points and Cash:
On the other hand, the "No-Cost Part Redemption" method provides customers with the flexibility to use a combination of points and cash to complete a purchase. For example, if a customer wishes to buy a £200 product with a £100 wholesale cost, they can choose to pay 50% of the price in cash and the remaining 50% using their loyalty points. From the business perspective, this redemption option incurs no direct cost, as the customer covers a portion of the purchase amount with their own funds.
BUYING BETTER WITH POINTS
Encouraging Customers to "Buy Better with Points":
Encouraging customers to "Buy Better with Points" is a strategy that benefits both parties involved. By allowing customers to access higher-value items at a reduced cost through their accumulated points, businesses can enhance the perceived value of their loyalty program and incentivize larger purchases. This approach fosters a win-win scenario where customers feel rewarded for their loyalty while businesses drive increased sales and customer engagement.
Levelling the Playing Field with Getslocal:
Despite the undeniable benefits of loyalty points, it's essential for small businesses to recognize the competitive landscape dominated by large corporations with extensive loyalty programs. These companies have long understood the power of loyalty initiatives in driving customer retention and revenue growth. To level the playing field and compete effectively, small businesses can leverage tools like the Getslocal coalition community rewards program.
Getslocal: Empowering Small Businesses:
Getslocal provides small businesses with access to a comprehensive loyalty platform that enables them to create and manage loyalty programs tailored to their unique needs. By joining forces with other local businesses within the Getslocal network, small business owners can amplify the impact of their loyalty initiatives and attract a broader audience of loyal customers. Through collaborative efforts and shared resources, businesses can strengthen their position in the market and thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.