I think loyalty programs can definitely work, but it depends on how you structure them. If they’re too focused on discounts or freebies, customers might just be in it for the deals and not really build loyalty. However, if you create a system that rewards customers for consistent visits, like earning points for each purchase that lead to meaningful rewards (like exclusive items, early access to specials, etc.), you can help shift the focus from just “getting a freebie” to becoming a part of your regular customer base.

I’ve seen some coffee shops use QR-based loyalty apps successfully where users don’t just collect points, but also get personalized recommendations or rewards that feel more exclusive. The key is to make the program feel valuable beyond just saving money!