Customer Loyalty

Restaurant Loyalty Programs: Points vs Tiers

5 min read

A loyalty program rewards repeat guests so they visit more often and spend more. The two common models are points (earn and redeem) and tiers (status levels with growing perks). The best programs are simple to understand and attached to the sale automatically.

Why loyalty matters

Returning guests are cheaper to serve than new ones and spend more over time. A loyalty program gives them a concrete reason to choose you again — but only if it's simple and effortless to earn.

Points vs tiers

ModelHow it worksBest for
PointsEarn points per spend, redeem for rewardsFrequent, everyday visits
TiersReach status levels (e.g. Bronze/Silver/Gold) with growing perksRecognizing and keeping your best guests

Running one that works

  • Keep earning and redeeming simple to explain in one sentence
  • Attach loyalty to the check automatically, not as a separate step
  • Use guest data to bring lapsed customers back
  • Add gift cards for gifting and prepaid balances

How WDPW does it

WDPW includes points, Bronze/Silver/Gold tiers, a rewards catalogue, and gift cards, from the Growth plan. A cashier attaches a guest to the check and points are awarded automatically on payment, and you can run SMS campaigns to customer segments.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Should I use a points or a tiers loyalty program?

Points suit frequent everyday visits; tiers suit recognizing your highest-value regulars. WDPW supports both together — points plus Bronze/Silver/Gold tiers.

Does WDPW include gift cards?

Yes. Gift cards are part of WDPW's CRM and loyalty, alongside points, tiers, and a rewards catalogue.

Next step

See WDPW running your restaurant.

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