In case you haven’t noticed, retailers are fighting for loyal customers. And how do they do this? By using one of the oldest tricks in the book: loyalty programs. With so many options, it can be hard to decide which programs are actually worth joining, so we took the guesswork out of it by filling you in on some of our favorites.
Makeup lovers, rejoice! Signing up for Sephora’s free loyalty program means accumulating points (the more you spend, the more points you earn), which you can redeem for free shipping, free samples, and exclusive deals and events. The best part about this loyalty program is that customers have the flexibility to choose how they use their points – including toward gift cards!
We’ll keep this short because we know you may already have the RedCard – or you’re signing up at the mere mention of Target on this list. Target’s loyalty program is pretty incredible because not only do you receive 5% off of every purchase but also free shipping for online orders and an extra 30 days to make returns. There is no annual fee, and it costs $0 to join. You’re welcome!
If you’re adventurous, you have to check out The North Face’s loyalty program. This is another point system where customers can spend their points however they want, including toward unique travel experiences, early access to limited-edition collections, the opportunity to test products before they’re available to the public, and product field testing. You can start earning points by attending an event, checking in at certain locations, or downloading The North Face app.
If you’re a loyal Nordstrom shopper, you’ll want to sign up for its free loyalty program. Points accumulate fast, as you get a point for every dollar you spend at Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack. If you also use a Nordstrom credit card, you’ll receive triple the amount of points! You can redeem your points for store credit, plus enjoy exclusive perks such as being the first to shop select brand shipments and curbside pickup.
If you’ve ever been in line at Starbucks, you’ve probably noticed customers scanning their phones. They’re doing this because they’re part of one of the most popular consumer rewards programs out there: Starbucks Rewards. The process is simple: You buy coffee, pay via the app with your debit or Starbucks gift card, and the points start accumulating. Customers can redeem points for free breakfast foods, coffee, and even specialty drinks. The app keeps your orders in mind and tailors future promotions to your liking. Pretty genius if you ask us. And nobody loses when free coffee is involved!
Michael Kors offers a free tiered loyalty program that includes everything from private events to free shipping and surprise gifts. What sets Michael Kors’ rewards program apart from so many others of this caliber is that it doesn’t just send out sample sizes; the gifts are pretty generous. Think: trendy, high-quality accessories and handbags, not just the out-of-season pieces that didn’t sell.
Do you have a favorite consumer rewards program? Share with us in the comments below!