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If there’s one thing restaurant owners know well, it’s that diners have become pickier and more discerning over the last decade. Many will comb through countless reviews and photos before deciding where to book a table for a Friday night out. Offering a loyalty scheme has always been one reliable way to keep customers coming back for more. But here’s the twist: customers now expect a swift, modern approach. They want convenience, rewards tailored to them, and a frictionless user experience—just as they get from online retailers or streaming services.
The days of traditional stamp cards are fading. According to Statista, 77% of UK consumers hold membership in at least one loyalty programme (source). Another 2021 survey from KPMG found that roughly 75% of UK shoppers say loyalty programmes influence where they choose to spend (source). For restaurants, that’s a signal as bright as a glowing ‘Open’ sign. People want to be rewarded for their repeat custom, and the more seamlessly this process happens, the better.
In this article, we’ll explore how switching from a paper-based system to a digital loyalty programme can transform your relationship with diners—and keep them returning for seconds (and thirds!). Think of it like creating the perfect dish: each ingredient, from personalised data to easy QR code payments, contributes to a flavourful experience that delights your guests and keeps them hungry for more.
Before diving into the how, it’s worth clarifying the what. A digital loyalty programme is any system that rewards repeat visits or purchases and tracks these rewards through electronic means. This can range from a simple app showing customers’ points balance, to more sophisticated systems that track purchase history and generate personalised rewards. It’s not just about stamping a card anymore—it’s about delivering a customised, frictionless experience every time a customer walks in or orders online.
Many restaurants integrate digital loyalty tools directly into their point-of-sale (POS) system or online ordering platform. Others run them as standalone apps or web-based solutions. But the overarching goal is the same: let your diners easily earn, view, and redeem rewards without rummaging through wallets in search of a dog-eared card.
By going digital, you can also capture valuable customer data—like favourite dishes, average spend, or frequency of visits—which can help refine your menu, customise your marketing efforts, and plan future promotions. It’s a more holistic approach that keeps a finger on the pulse of what your guests truly want.
Transforming your loyalty programme from analogue to digital can feel like a leap of faith. But the rewards can be as satisfying as serving a perfectly cooked steak or a creamy vegan risotto. Let’s take a closer look at the key advantages:
Switching from paper to digital can be smooth—if you plan carefully. Much like preparing a new dish, you need the right ingredients, the proper tools, and a clear recipe. Here are some steps to consider:
One of the most powerful perks of a digital loyalty programme is data collection. But all that information can feel like a giant buffet. If you don’t have a plan, you’ll end up overindulging with no clear goal. Instead, identify key performance indicators (KPIs) that directly reflect your objectives.
Want to attract more family diners on Tuesdays? Track sign-ups and redemption on family meals. Hoping to promote your new vegan range? Segment your data to see which customers frequently order plant-based items, then send them an exclusive vegan-friendly offer.
Keep it strategic. Use your data to improve your menu, refine your marketing, and forecast demand. The aim is to understand your diners better, not to add more noise to your day. Ultimately, well-analysed data leads to well-informed decisions—and satisfied customers who feel like you truly ‘get’ them.
Now, how does all this tie in with Sunday? As many restaurateurs already know, Sunday is more than just a payment solution that allows customers to settle their bills via QR code or leave tips seamlessly. It’s also an avenue for collecting feedback, sharing Google reviews, and connecting with guests in a direct, meaningful way.
Sunday’s platform integrates smoothly with the rest of your restaurant’s operations. Instead of juggling multiple apps or having your staff scribble notes, everything is handled through one consistent interface. That means customers who pay via Sunday can also be prompted to join your loyalty programme right then and there—no separate sign-up steps required.
Even better, the data from each transaction can feed directly into your loyalty analytics. You’ll see the average spend of each loyalty member, the times they typically visit, and which dishes they gravitate towards. It’s like opening the lid on a simmering pot: you get a clear look at what’s cooking, enabling you to make timely adjustments. Want to surprise frequent visitors with a free dessert? Now you can do it seamlessly.
And because Sunday also enables customers to leave Google reviews promptly, you’re turning each visit into an opportunity for authentic social proof. Loyal customers often become your most vocal advocates. Once their payment is complete, a gentle nudge to share their thoughts helps build credibility. It’s a win-win: the diner feels recognised and appreciated, and you gain a stronger presence online.
Digital loyalty programmes have a lot going for them, but implementing one can still feel daunting. Let’s stir the pot and address some common challenges:
UK diners are more tech-savvy than ever. They’re used to instant confirmations, one-tap deliveries, and online check-ins. As this digital appetite grows, restaurants that cling to outdated methods risk being left behind. Investing in a digital loyalty programme isn’t just about adding another gadget to your toolkit; it’s about crafting a cohesive, modern dining experience that resonates with the next generation of guests.
Imagine a future where your restaurant offers hyper-personalised perks. A diner who frequently orders the same cocktail is automatically offered a complimentary twist on that recipe—just because they’ve reached a certain loyalty threshold. Or a group of friends logs in on their phones to split the bill, pay via QR code, and instantly see their new loyalty balance roll over. As soon as they leave a review, the system rewards them with a token of appreciation for sharing their feedback. This isn’t sci-fi. It’s where hospitality is heading, and the path is being paved by digital tools like Sunday that simplify every step of the journey.
Loyalty in the restaurant business is about more than freebies and discounts. It’s about recognising the unique preferences of your customers, adapting to their changing tastes, and making each visit feel like a special occasion. By going digital, you unlock new ways to delight diners, stand out in a crowded market, and keep those seats filled. Consider it the culinary equivalent of upgrading from instant gravy granules to a lovingly prepared, slow-simmered jus. Once you taste the difference, you won’t go back.
Taking your loyalty programme into the digital realm can feel like a big jump. But with Sunday’s payment solution ready to help convert satisfied diners into enthusiastic fans, the move might be far simpler than you imagine. Here’s what you can do next:
Modern diners expect speed, convenience, and a personal touch. A digital loyalty programme delivers on all three, turning occasional customers into loyal regulars who rave about your restaurant online and off. By integrating loyalty features with efficient payment solutions, you create a dining experience that’s smooth from first click to final bite.
There’s no time like the present to make the shift. Your guests are ready to go paperless, your staff is eager for simpler processes, and your business will reap the benefits of better engagement, clearer data, and a stronger bottom line. If you’re looking for that missing ingredient to spice up your customer retention strategy, digital loyalty might just be the perfect seasoning.
After all, restaurants thrive when they serve up what customers crave—and right now, that includes a slick, tech-friendly, and rewarding way to keep coming back for seconds.
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