The other day, while making the rounds on Facebook, I noticed a thread of comments with regard to a small business in the West Loop and the loyalty programs in which it is currently participating. A few of the commenters were concerned about what happens to their points (which they racked up over the course of many loyal visits) should the small business discontinue its partnership with a given loyalty app/card/program.
These customers’ concerns were totally valid. With most loyalty programs, whether they be punch-card, mobile app., or iPad/tablet based, the points you earn at any given merchant can only be redeemed for rewards at that particular merchant. Should the merchant and the loyalty program in question sever ties, the customers who have 89,000 points saved up are pretty much S.O.L.
Sadly, this type of situation is not that uncommon. In fact, I think we all know someone who was negatively affected by the decision of a merchant to discontinue use of a loyalty program.
In an effort to mitigate the amount of disgruntled customers, Ox&Pen’s loyalty points are good toward rewards at each and every small business in our network of local merchants. In the unfortunate event that a merchant is no longer part of the Ox&Pen network, all the points you earned at that bar during post-softball team celebrations or extra-fun Sunday Funday brunches (you know who you are) aren’t for naught. Any accrued points at that, or any merchant you visit, can still be used like cash at every other merchant in the network.
There you have it. Loyalty points that won’t “go bad.” If you’re concerned about the loyalty program your favorite bar, restaurant, café or boutique is using—and what will happen to your points if they discontinue use—let them know that Ox&Pen circumvents the issue with universal points.
