Many nationally spread companies have begun to follow a new trend in marketing and company loyalty programs: apps. In the past, if you want coupons, many would have to hunt them down in local newspapers or sign up for a mailing list. Then, companies began to adapt to technology by using emails and online-specific coupons. However, now companies have been releasing more and more app-based coupons and rewards.

Nearly every national company that has a location in Washington also has an app. For example: McDonald, Taco Bell, Walmart, Micheals and PetSmart. Oftentimes, if you find yourself waiting in a long line at a store, it might be rewarding to search for the app and download it. 

Many of these apps also include rewards programs, allowing customers to save money after a certain amount is spent at the company. Typically, if you spend around $20 on a single visit to said company, many will end up rewarding you within a mere couple of visits. For example, Jack in the Box’s loyalty program lets customers redeem points in exchange for certain foods as early as 40 points which, in their program, is when $40 is spent. Some apps will let you redeem points before a free item is able to be redeemed. For example, Casey’s rewards will let you use your earned points to get a certain dollar amount off of your total purchase. 

On top of obtaining rewards back, many apps offer “app-exclusive” deals. Those include coupons, “double points” days, and many more. Sonic often offers half-priced drinks and slushies when orders are placed on the app. Other apps, such as Joann, often have more coupons on the app than on their website. For example, online may have a 40 percent discount, but on the app, there may be a 60 percent discount. 

These rewards programs typically offer an extra deal for those who sign up. These can be anything from getting an additional free item to getting a discount on a purchase. Many stores often pride themselves on having a “quick and easy” signing up process as well, allowing customers to be able to sign up while in store.

However, there can be a negative aspect to it as well. Many companies use data tracking with rewards programs to learn more about their customers and figure out how to best advertise to others. This data tracking can also link up with your digital footprint and follow you around many parts of the internet. If you do sign up for rewards programs, make sure to read their privacy policy and learn what you do sign up for to ensure you do approve of the terms you sign up for.

Joining rewards programs can be a simple and efficient way to save money, so long as your online safety is a priority.