16 January 2024

The Best Restaurant Loyalty Schemes to Look Out for in 2024

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The Best Restaurant Loyalty Schemes to Look Out for in 2024
Annabel GibsonWritten ByAnnabel Gibson

Annabel is the Marketing Coordinator at Propeller, taking on the production of social media communications, creating copy for articles and contacting external agencies for collaborations.

With the cost of living still putting pressure on wallets, loyalty schemes have become a lifeline for both restaurants trying to keep their tables full and customers looking to make their money go further.

In an industry where foot traffic can be unpredictable, it’s the regulars that really make the difference. And what better way to keep people coming back than with a few fun, tasty rewards?

So, what are the best loyalty programs in the UK right now? From free pizza upgrades to birthday burritos, let’s take a look at the schemes giving diners a reason to come back for seconds (and thirds).

Loyalty scheme trends to watch

Gone are the days of scrappy stamp cards. The top restaurant loyalty programs today—especially at big UK chains—are digital, eco-friendly, and live right in your pocket with easy-to-use apps. And in 2024, they’re not just about free food (though that’s a big bonus). These programs are all about keeping your favourite spots on your mind and making every dining experience feel a little bit more special.

Propeller's picks: Best restaurant loyalty programs in the UK

Pizza Express

A firm family-favourite and date night classic, Pizza Express is giving back to loyal customers in delicious ways. Their PizzaExpress Club app is simple: the more often you visit, the better your perks. Start off with free dough balls just for joining, then work your way through the tiers— Bronze, Silver, Gold—to unlock even better rewards.

Gold members? You’re looking at free Romana pizza upgrades, kid’s meals on the house on weekdays, and even 50% off all pizzas during promotional periods, like January. Basically, loyalty has never tasted so good.

Structure: Tiered loyalty program (Bronze, Silver, Gold)

Rewards: Free starters, dough balls, pizza upgrades, free birthday treats

Standout feature: Personalised offers based on visit frequency—plus surprise deals throughout the year

 

Zizzi’s

Who doesn’t want to be a zillionaire? Zizzi’s brings the energy with its Zillionaire’s Club—a loyalty scheme that doesn’t take itself too seriously but delivers seriously good perks.

Earn Zs (their version of points) every time you dine in, grab takeaway, or refer a friend. What do Zs get you? Think free food, drinks, birthday treats and a 25% discount on Click & Collect. Every fourth visit unlocks a Surprise Perk too—just to keep things interesting.

Structure: Point-based system (Zs) through visits, takeaways, and referrals

Rewards: Free food, drinks, 25% off Click & Collect, birthday treats, surprise perks

Standout feature: Surprise perks and a reward after every fourth visit

 

Pret a Manager

It would be wrong not to mention Pret. Launched during the height of lockdown, Club Pret gave customers a much-needed pick-me-up—and reason to leave the house. Fast forward to now, and it’s still going strong as one of the most generous loyalty schemes on the high street.

For just £5 a month, you get 50% off up to five barista-made drinks a day—yes, five. Whether it’s your daily flat white, an iced matcha to beat the afternoon slump, it’s a no-brainer for anyone who stops by more than a few times a week. And yes, alternative milks, a shot of syrup, and even a “make me stronger” espresso shot are all included.

Structure: Monthly subscription (£5/month)

Rewards: 50% off up to five eligible barista-made drinks every day

Standout feature: Daily drink savings with almost no cap on drink type—no points, no tiers, just straight-up discounts

 

Island Poke

Another lockdown brainchild, Poké Perks by Island Poké is a simple, stamp-based loyalty scheme with some tasty benefits. Your earn 1 stamp per bowl, and from there it adds up fast:

  • 5 stamps = £5 voucher
  • 10 stamps = a free house poké bowl or hotbowl

You’ll also get a £5 voucher just for placing your first order via the app, a free topping when you sign up, and double points until June. Add in birthday surprises and seasonal offers, it’s a solid perk for anyone who visits often.

Structure: Stamp-based system via the Island Poké app

Rewards: £5 voucher at 5 stamps, free bowl at 10, birthday treats, exclusive offers

Standout feature: Easy-to-earn rewards and double points for new members

Bar Burrito

If you’re a burrito-on-the-go kind of person, Bar Burrito Rewards app is well worth a download. It’s fast, generous, and loaded with perks: buy burritos, earn stamps, get free food.

Here’s the lowdown:

  • 3 stamps just for downloading the app
  • 1 stamp per main dish
  • Free wings, side or dessert after 4 stamps
  • Free burrito after 9 stamps
  • Free burrito on your birthday

The app also gives you exclusive discounts, early access to new menu items, and extra perks for students—like 20% off food (or 30% off on Wednesdays).

Structure: Stamp-based rewards app via the Bar Burrito app

Rewards: Free food after 4 or 9 stamps, birthday perks, student discounts

Standout feature: Instant sign-up rewards and generous student perks

 

Caprice Holdings

Caprice Holdings don’t have a points-based loyalty scheme, but they do offer gift cards for their iconic restaurants—think The Ivy, Scott’s, and Sexy Fish. It’s a simple way for fans to return or share a great dining experience.

Gift cards might not feel like loyalty at first glance, but they’re a smart move for restaurants: they lock in future visits, attract new customers, and are super simple to set up if you’re a venue looking to offer them.

Many venues choose to integrate gift cards directly into their online platforms and POS systems for a seamless experience. Need help setting one up? Our digital specialists will be able to lend a hand.

Structure: Digital and physical gift cards

Rewards: Not a traditional loyalty scheme, but great for customer engagement

Standout feature: Simple set-up, strong return potential

Why loyalty schemes work for restaurants

Restaurant loyalty schemes help you stay connected with your customers, even when they’re not sitting at your tables. With a loyalty program or app, you’re consistently reminding diners why they should choose you when it’s time to decide where to eat—whether it’s through special offers, exclusive discounts, or exciting event updates.

In a world where there’s always a new spot to try, these programs are the perfect way to keep your regulars coming back for more, even when there’s fierce competition just around the corner.

Let’s build your loyalty program

Whether you’re interested in restaurant loyalty schemes or want to explore the power of gift cards, Propeller is here to help. Our team can assist you in creating a smooth integration between your POS system, website, and mobile app, ensuring that your customers get an amazing experience—and a reason to return.

Get in touch today and let’s chat about how we can help you build a loyalty program that works for you!

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