ROSEMEAD, Calif.—Panda Express now offers a new loyalty rewards program called Panda Rewards. The program is the restaurant’s first points-based national rewards program.
Panda Rewards uses a personalized points-based system that rewards members with 10 Panda Points for every dollar spent on qualifying purchases. Once 200 Panda Points have been accumulated, customers can redeem them for certain menu items.
Each month, customers’ first qualified purchase will unlock a surprise Good Fortune Gift ranging from bonus points to special discounts or free food, along with a unique digital fortune cookie message to be collected. Panda Rewards members will also receive a birthday gift of their choice.
"Sharing good fortune is an important value at Panda, and we are delighted to launch our first rewards program nationwide as a heartfelt expression of gratitude towards our loyal guests for their continued support throughout the years," said Andrea Cherng, chief brand officer at Panda Express. "We look forward to engaging our guests in a playful and meaningful journey of good fortune as they collect unique prizes offering exceptional value every time they dine at Panda."
The more Panda Points members accrue, the better the rewards options. The rewards range from a free upgrade to a premium entrée, a free drink of choice to a free family-sized meal. Customers are able to choose their preferred reward from multiple options, giving the program a more personalized feel. Panda Points do not expire unless there are no qualifying purchases in 12 months.
To encourage guests to join the loyalty program, all new Panda Rewards members that sign up via the free Panda Express mobile app or online at PandaRewards.com will receive a welcome gift of 25% off their order (up to $10 off) and exclusive surprises all year long.
Loyalty customers spend more at convenience stores, according to recent Paytronix research. C-store loyalty members annually spend 38% more on average than other customers, and the report found fuel visits increased by 8% in 2021 for loyalty member customers. Also, the most loyal c-store customers are visiting businesses one or more times per day.
A free NACS webinar is available that shows retailers how to improve their current loyalty program.
Also, NACS published a free report on how convenience retailers can build loyalty program affinity beyond rewards. It provides insights on c-store loyalty programs, shopper expectations, program engagement, personalization and program access/communication.
Check out “Welcome to the Club” in the February 2023 issue of NACS Magazine to learn how c-store loyalty programs are moving beyond simple points and rewards to a personalized experience.