When it comes to business, every customer counts.
And if you run a convenience store, you know that your customers are your most valuable asset. You also know that it’s more cost-effective to keep an existing customer than to acquire a new one.
That’s where loyalty programs come in.
Let’s dive into our five favorite ideas for convenience store loyalty programs — and how a c-store point of sale (POS) system can help you implement them — so you can keep your customers happy and your profits soaring.
1. Points System
A points-based loyalty program is a tried and tested method that rewards customers with points for every purchase they make. Once a buyer accumulates a certain number of points, they can redeem them for rewards or discounts.
Assign a point value for every dollar, and designate rewards; try a $5 discount for every $100 spent, or a free fountain drink with every $50 purchase. Your POS system will track and manage your customers’ loyalty points, and you can even customize your loyalty program to offer different point values for different products — so you can target specific products or promotions.
2. Tiered Programs
Tiered convenience store loyalty programs reward customers based on their level of loyalty. The more they spend, the higher their tier, and the more rewards they receive. For example, customers who spend $50 in a month can become a silver member and receive 10 percent off their purchases, while those who spend $100 can become a gold member and receive 20 percent off their purchases.
A point of sale system created for convenience stores helps you track each customer's spending and assign them to the appropriate tier. You can also customize the rewards and perks for each tier, so you can incentivize customers to increase their spending.
3. Punch Cards
Punch cards are a simple and effective convenience store loyalty program that rewards customers for repeat business. Customers receive a card with a certain number of punches, and each time they make a purchase, they receive a punch (or stamp). Once they collect enough punches, they can redeem their card for a reward or discount.
You can use your c-store POS system to customize the number of punches required for a reward, so you can incentivize customers to return more frequently — you can even track the punches or stamps earned and redeemed by each customer, eliminating the need for physical punch cards.
4. Birthday Rewards
Birthday rewards are a great way to show your buyers how much you appreciate their business. Customers receive a reward or discount on their birthday, encouraging them to stop by your store on their special day.
Look for a POS that tracks customers’ birthdays, so you can automatically send them a reward or discount on their birthday — straight from your system. Try a 20 percent discount or a free drink.
5. C-Store Referral Programs
Referral programs encourage customers to refer their friends and family to your store, rewarding both the referrer and the new customer. Customers who refer someone receive a discount on their next purchase, while the person they refer receives a discount on their first purchase — try a $5 reward for every new customer someone refers to your shop.
With a convenience store point of sale system, you can set up a loyalty program that tracks referrals and rewards customers for referring new members — and you can customize the rewards for both the referrer and the new customer, so you can incentivize both to participate.
Create Custom Convenience Store Loyalty Programs With C-Store POS
Convenience store loyalty programs are an excellent way to build relationships with your customers, and to keep them coming back for more.
And the right point of sale system tracks and manages customer rewards, allowing you to focus on what you do best – running your store.
Ready to get started? Schedule a demo with one of our C-Store POS experts today, or use our build and price tool to create your custom quote. You’ll be rewarding customers (and boosting profits!) in no time.
