Travel Loyalty Programs Woo Fickle Customers With Members-Only Experiences

Travel Loyalty Programs Woo Fickle Customers With Members-Only Experiences

The New York Timesbusiness

Key Points:

  • Airlines, banks, and hotels are evolving loyalty programs to allow members to redeem points and miles for exclusive experiences like Broadway backstage tours, sold-out sports tickets, and Michelin-starred dinners.
  • Programs such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Chase, Capital One, and United Airlines offer access to coveted events and intimate experiences, enhancing the value of points beyond traditional travel rewards.
  • Companies are focusing on lifestyle-oriented loyalty strategies to attract and retain customers by providing unique, VIP experiences that go beyond basic travel or banking services.
  • Despite these enhancements, some loyalty programs have devalued points and reduced benefits, which has led to mixed reactions among members regarding their overall loyalty.
  • Experts note that the shift toward experience-based rewards aims