How to create a loyalty program for your restaurant
New guests are expensive to attract; returning ones come back for free. A simple loyalty program turns returning into a habit, without constant discounts that cut your profit.
Keep it simple
A guest should understand the program in one sentence, for example “every €10 spent earns 1 point, 20 points earn a free dish”. Programs with many rules do not get used.
Choose a reward that costs you little
Reward with something that has a high margin: a coffee, a dessert or a drink. It has value for the guest, while the food cost to you is small compared with a new visit.
Points come from orders automatically
Points should be added automatically when the guest orders, not with stamped cards that get lost. In a system with recorded orders, points are tracked on the phone and the guest sees how far they are from the reward.
Tiers for your best guests
A few tiers, for example regular, frequent and VIP, make guests want to move up. Each tier gets a small extra benefit, such as a birthday drink.
Measure the result
Look at how many guests return within 30 days and how much they spend on average. If the number does not grow, change the reward or the points rule before you abandon the program.
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Start freeFrequently asked questions
- Does a loyalty program work for a small restaurant?
- Yes. Small restaurants often have regulars, and a point or a free coffee makes them feel valued.
- Do I need a physical card?
- No. Points can be tracked on the phone from orders, with no card to lose.
- How big should the reward be?
- Around 5–10% of the amount spent is a common starting point; test and adjust it to your margin.