10 Inspiring Mobile Apps For Loyalty Programs From Famous Brands

Everyone’s glued to their phones these days, so it’s a ground-breaking move to include a loyalty program in an app. That’s exactly what big brands are doing, and they succeed!

A loyalty app makes it super easy for customers to track their points, redeem those rewards, and stay connected to your brand, all without breaking a sweat.

So, I’ve rounded up nine inspiring mobile apps from big-name brands that are absolutely killing it with their loyalty programs. We’re talking Starbucks, Sephora, and Amazon—the big leagues! You’ll be inspired and learn a thing or two to take your own Shopify loyalty program to the next level!

Let’s dive in!

What Is A Mobile App For a Loyalty Program?

A loyalty program mobile app is created to let customers flexibly engage with a business’s loyalty program through their smartphones. Customers can easily track points, redeem rewards, and stay engaged.

These apps offer a convenient and personalized experience, enhancing customer loyalty and encouraging repeat purchases.

A great mobile app for loyalty programs includes the following:

• Personalized Rewards and Profile: Tailored offers, recommendations, and rewards based on user preferences, behavior, and achievements
• Real-Time Points Tracking: Instant updates on earned and redeemed points, with a clear and detailed summary. Milestones or achievements with corresponding rewards can also be added.
• Push Notifications: Timely and automatic reminders about expiring points, exclusive deals, and personalized offers.
• In-App Redemption: Easy redemption of rewards and offers directly through the app’s QR code or barcode scanning without additional steps.
• Referrals – Unique code or link to encourage users to refer the app to others, often resulting in bonus points or exclusive rewards.
• Multiple Payment Options: Integration with popular payment gateways or digital wallets for seamless transactions.
• Omnichannel Connectivity: Synchronization with other touchpoints, such as in-store systems and web portals, for a unified experience.

How Mobile Apps Support Brands’ Loyalty Programs

Mobile apps have become a game-changer for loyalty programs, offering a convenient and engaging way for customers to interact with your brand and earn rewards. Here’s how they support your loyalty initiatives:

• Convenience and Accessibility: Mobile apps let customers access their loyalty program anytime, anywhere. Whether checking points, finding deals, or redeeming rewards, everything is just a tap away.
• Personalized Experiences: Apps analyze customer preferences and behavior to offer tailored rewards, exclusive deals, and content that resonate with individual users, strengthening the bond between brand and customer.
• Gamification: Mobile apps provide a perfect platform for gamifying your loyalty program. Incorporate elements like progress bars, badges, challenges, or interactive games to make earning rewards more fun and motivating.
• Seamless Reward Redemption and Tracking: Customers can easily track their progress, redeem rewards instantly, and view their transaction history in one place without any hassle. The app also provides a clear and organized view of their points balance, earning history, and redeemed rewards.
• Data and Insights: Apps collect data on user activity and preferences, empowering brands to refine their loyalty strategies and optimize offerings.

10 Mobile Apps For Loyalty Programs From Famous Brands For Your Inspiration

Vinamilk

Vinamilk, a leading dairy company in Vietnam, uses a mobile app powered by Joy Loyalty to run its loyalty program and engage with customers. The app provides a convenient platform for customers to track their points, redeem rewards, and stay updated on Vinamilk’s products and promotions.

Key features of the Vinamilk app

• Points Tracking
• A catalog of rewards where users can redeem points for various products, discounts, and experiences.
• Personalized offers and recommendations based on purchase history and preferences.
• Store Locator
• Ordering
• Recipes and content related to health, nutrition, and cooking with Vinamilk products.
• Interactive games and contests for users to earn bonus points and prizes.

How the App Integrates with the Vinamilk Loyalty Program

• QR Code Scanning: Scan QR codes from scratch cards on Vinamilk products to earn loyalty points.
• Points History: View a detailed history of points earned and redeemed.
• Membership Tiers: Track progress through different membership tiers based on accumulated points.
• Push Notifications: Receive timely notifications about new rewards, exclusive offers, and program updates.

Design Advantages

• Clean and simple interface
• Bright and inviting colors reflect the brand’s identity and appeal to a wide audience.
• Gamification elements with code-scanning features
• Clear fonts and intuitive icons improve usability across age groups.

Lesson Learned:

• Omnichannel experience: The app allows customers to earn points through various channels (product purchases, in-store events, online activities).
• Engagement Beyond Transactions: The app offers valuable content, recipes, and games, providing value beyond points and rewards and encouraging users to stay engaged with the brand.

📚 Read more about Vinamilk’s Game-Changing Loyalty Strategy

Starbucks Rewards

Okay, let’s kick things off with a loyalty program app that’s practically a household name: Starbucks Rewards. This app is more than just a loyalty program; it is the key ingredient in Starbucks’ success in customer engagement.

You can order ahead, pay for your drinks, track your rewards, and even discover new menu items. It’s like having a barista in your pocket!

Key Features

• Reward tiers
• Mobile wallet integration
• Store locator
• Exclusive member-only perks
• Gift card management
• Seasonal campaigns
• Music integration with Spotify

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program

• Users accumulate Stars directly in the app and can monitor progress toward rewards.
• Stars can be exchanged for various items, from free drinks to premium merchandise.
• Tailored offers and bonuses keep customers engaged with special deals.
• Interactive challenges and games reward users with bonus stars, encouraging ongoing use.
• Push notifications for expiring stars incentivize frequent visits.

Starbuck Rewards App Design Advantages

• Intuitive layout and navigation with clear menus for orders, rewards, and account details.
• Displays music currently playing in stores, drink customization options, and tailored recommendations.
• The Interactive UX of gamification and challenges makes the app more engaging.
• High-quality graphics with a premium vibe reflect Starbucks’ signature image.

Lessons Learned

• Make loyalty effortless by streamlining an all-in-one solution.
• Simplify loyalty tracking.
• Offer meaningful rewards tied to customer spending habits.
• Enhance convenience with integrated multiple mobile features like pre-order and pay.

MyMcDonald’s Rewards

McDonald’s has leveraged its global presence to turn casual diners into loyal fans with just a few taps.

Now, McDonald’s might not be the first brand that comes to mind when you think of sophisticated loyalty programs, but trust me, they’ve stepped up their game with this app.

MyMcDonald’s Rewards is an app that rewards you for your fries cravings, Big Mac indulgences, and morning coffee runs—all wrapped in a simple, user-friendly mobile experience.

Key Features

• Reward tiers
• Bonus point
• Charitable donations
• Multiple ordering channels
• Personalized offers
• Exclusive promotions

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program

• Points automatically accrue on purchases and are visible in-app for easy tracking.
• Rewards can be claimed online or in-store using a simple 4-digit code.
• Offers tailored to preferences ensure customers feel valued.
• Earning tiers and tracking rewards encourage ongoing participation despite limited gamification.

Design Advantages

• Minimalistic design for all ages’ navigation with ease.
• Familiar colors, icons, animations, and interactive elements align with the brand.

Lessons Learned

• An accessible program with clear benefits keeps users engaged.
• The app should work across all channels—drive-thru, dine-in, and delivery—for a unified experience.

Dunkin’ Donuts

Calling all donut lovers and coffee enthusiasts! The Dunkin’ Donuts Rewards app is your ultimate sidekick for fueling your cravings while earning sweet perks along the way.

From racking up points on every dollar spent to scoring free drinks, donuts, and exclusive offers, this app is all about making your Dunkin’ Donuts serving runs even better. Plus, with features like order-ahead and personalized rewards, it’s never been tastier to stay loyal to your favorite treats!

Key features

• Flexible Rewards Redemption
• Boosted Status
• Order Ahead
• Mobile Payment
• Customized Ordering
• Birthday Rewards
• Gift Card Management

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program

• Members can order ahead through the app and earn points on every purchase.
• Points are earned regardless of payment method, including app-based Dunkin’ Cards with auto-reload.
• Users can easily redeem points for free food and drinks within the app.
• Over 14,000 ways to customize orders, with saved favorites for quick reordering.
• Updates on rewards and promotions keep users instantly.

Design Advantages

• An intuitive layout and vibrant colors reflect an energetic brand identity
• Clear tabs for ordering, rewards, and account management simplify user actions
• Information and actions are neatly arranged to avoid clutter

Lessons Learned

• Convenience is King
• A catchy design caters to customers’ attraction
• Tailored offers and challenges make customers feel valued and understood
• The app integrates smoothly with the in-store experience, creating a cohesive and rewarding customer journey

7 Eleven

For a brand synonymous with convenience, 7-Eleven’s app goes beyond expectations, transforming quick stops into rewarding experiences, bridging the gap between physical stores and digital convenience. Whether you’re grabbing a Slurpee or fueling up your car, the app ensures every visit counts toward something more.

It’s not just a 7Rewards loyalty program; it’s a reflection of 7-Eleven’s commitment to enhancing everyday convenience through personalized rewards and modern tech integration.

Key Features

• Loyalty Rewards Tracking
• Exclusive Deals
• Mobile Checkout
• Fuel Loyalty Integration
• 7NOW Delivery
• Store Locator

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program

• Earn points for eligible purchases, both in-store and via 7NOW delivery.
• Redeem rewards for free items, discounts, or exclusive promotions.
• Access personalized offers based on shopping habits and preferences.
• Participate in promotional challenges to unlock bonus rewards.
• Manage rewards with expiration reminders to ensure timely redemptions.

Design Advantages

• Creative promotional challenges to attract user participants
• Easy registration and tutorial for first-time users
• Aligns with 7-Eleven’s vibrant and energetic brand identity

Lessons Learned

• The app excels in balancing utility and engagement
• Challenges and personalized offers incentivize frequent use
• By offering an intuitive interface, even non-tech-savvy users can approach easily

Sephora Beauty Insider

A beauty enthusiast is impossible not to know Sephora, an iconic name synonymous with cosmetics and skincare.

Sephora Beauty Insider program is practically a textbook example of how to do loyalty right. They’ve built a massive and engaged community around their brand, and their mobile app plays a huge role in that success.

Key Features

• Shopping tools
• Rewards Management
• Beauty Community
• Virtual Try-On
• Customized Recommendations
• Order Management
• Beauty Classes

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program

• Earn points with every purchase, both online and in-store.
• Redeem points for exclusive products or experiences from the Rewards Bazaar.
• Unlock higher-tier benefits with cumulative spending, such as free shipping and early access to sales.
• Access personalized offers and birthday gifts through the Beauty Insider program.
• Use gamification elements like virtual try-ons to enhance interaction with the loyalty features.

Design Advantages

• A visually appealing, on-brand interface that feels modern and luxurious.
• Simple navigation to product categories, loyalty details, and the beauty community.
• Seamless integration of AR tools for product exploration.
• Accessibility-focused design with easy onboarding for all users.

Lessons Learned

• Leverage data for custom recommendations that resonate with users.
• Make interactions playful and immersive to boost engagement by applying the latest technologies.
• Foster a sense of belonging with forums and shared experiences.

Marriott Bonvoy

For travelers who demand more than just a place to stay, the Marriott Bonvoy app redefines convenience and luxury. With the app, you can unlock seamless booking, personalized recommendations, and exclusive member perks.

Key Features

• Booking and trip management
• Mobile key
• Check-in and check-out
• Trip planner
• Real-time chat
• Point tracker
• Offers and promotions

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program

• Automatically earn points with every eligible stay.
• Use points for free nights, upgrades, or unique experiences.
• Get recommendations based on preferences and travel history.
• View benefits like late checkout or room upgrades.

Design Advantages

• Clean layout for smooth navigation.
• A customizable dashboard tailored to your loyalty program tier and needs.
• Designed with global travelers in mind, offering intuitive usability.

Lessons Learned

• Linking with third-party services amplifies the loyalty program’s utility
• Supporting multiple languages and currencies ensures broader user adoption.
• Marriott Bonvoy’s tiered system creates a sense of exclusivity and motivates members to strive for higher levels and greater benefits.
• Offering unique experiences, like room upgrades or access to exclusive lounges, enhances the value of the loyalty program.

Chipotle Rewards

Chipotle’s Rewards app is a standout for fans of fast, fresh, and flavorful Mexican food. It’s more than just a tool for placing orders—it’s a portal to exclusive rewards and personalized experiences.

With easy access to rewards and discounts, this app brings the heat to your dining experience, giving you more reasons to love Chipotle.

Features

• Order Ahead
• Meal Customization
• Saved Meals
• Location Services
• Earn Points
• Exclusive Offers

How the App Integrates with the Loyalty Program:

• Every transaction earns points, which are used directly through the app to get free food, making redemption easy and immediate.
• Unlock special rewards as you move up in loyalty tiers, offering more value as you spend more.
• Get custom rewards based on your favorite orders and past purchases, increasing engagement.
• Access app-only deals and offers that make loyalty even more rewarding.

Design Advantages:

• An easy-to-navigate design with clear categories and quick access
• High-quality images of meals make the menu engaging and help users make appetizing choices.
• Streamlined layout for users to order and redeem rewards with minimal steps.

Lessons Learned:

• The more personalized the rewards and offers, the more engaged customers become
• The app’s straightforward design creates a hassle-free experience.
• Seamless integration of the loyalty program with meal customization and ordering helps drive both app usage and customer retention.
• Offer a diverse range of rewards to cater to different customer preferences.

Target Circle

Target, a giant e-commerce marketplace, has a reward loyalty app called Target Circle that is your go-to companion for shopping smarter while saving big.

For everyday essentials hunting or scoring bonuses on your favorite brands, the app keeps you connected to everything that makes Target shopping better and more rewarding.

Features

• Weekly ads and personalized deals
• Digital Coupons
• Gift card management
• Target Circle Rewards
• Community Support
• Exclusive Perks
• Barcode Scanner
• Order Management
• Fast Checkout

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program:

• Automatically apply personalized offers and Circle rewards at checkout.
• Earn 1% back on every purchase with Target Circle earnings.
• Join Target Circle for free through the app to unlock rewards and bonuses.
• Link other reward accounts to maximize benefits.

Design Advantages:

• Easy navigation between rewards, deals, and shopping features.
• Bright, bold visuals aligned with Target’s signature branding.
• Features like one-scan payment and real-time deal updates make it user-friendly.
• Displays relevant deals and rewards based on shopping preferences.

Lessons Learned:

• Integrating shopping, payments, and rewards on a single platform simplifies the experience.
• Seamlessly connects with the app and in-store experience, allowing customers to use digital coupons and access their rewards both online and in-store.

The North Face

The North Face app is a must-have for adventure enthusiasts who love exploring the outdoors while earning rewards through the XPLR Pass. This app goes beyond purchases, offering exclusive access to events, early product launches, and perks that make outdoor gear shopping a rewarding experience.

Features and Functionality:

• Point earning options
• Exclusive benefits
• Event Invitations
• Reward redemption
• In-app store locator

How the App Integrates with the Brand’s Loyalty Program:

• Earn points (PeakPoints) for purchases, app activities (like tracking hikes), and social engagement.
• Earn and redeem points both in-store and online.
• Clear visibility of reward periods for better planning.
• Encourages eco-friendly behaviors by rewarding points for green actions.
• Members can join exclusive events and share feedback directly through the app.

Design Advantages:

• Sleek and rugged design aligns with The North Face’s outdoor brand identity.
• Clear menu and well-organized sections for rewards, points, and purchases.
• A visible feedback button enhances customer interaction and app improvement.
• Leverages app-based check-ins for enhanced engagement.

Lessons Learned:

• Offering unique experiences like guided adventures or early access to gear, which resonates with their adventurous audience.
• Offering rewards for sustainable actions and app interactions deepens customer connection.
• A clear explanation of points and benefits encourages participation.
• Exclusive access makes customers feel valued.

Rewarding Your Customers For Their Loyalty

As you’ve seen, loyalty apps are the crunch point for surviving in such a competitive industry. The 10 high-rated loyalty apps demonstrate the power of rewarding your customers and creating unforgettable brand experiences. They highlight how simple, well-designed programs can turn casual buyers into lifelong fans.

With the Joy Rewards & Loyalty Program, it’s incredibly easy to create and launch a beautiful reward page for your Shopify store. You don’t need to be a tech expert—Joy handles the heavy lifting so you can focus on what matters most: your customers.

What’s even better? Joy can integrate with One Mobile and will soon support Shopney, making it effortless to extend your loyalty program to mobile apps. In fact, Joy has already helped many brands, like Vinamilk, successfully manage loyalty apps for their customers, creating seamless experiences on both desktop and mobile.

So, if you’re dreaming of having your own omnichannel loyalty program and a branded app, Joy can help you make that a reality!