Real time rewards a first in New Zealand

MEDIA RELEASE
4 August 2009

Real time rewards a first in New Zealand

Fly Buys is the first customer loyalty programme in New Zealand to be using technology to offer shoppers rewards collection in real time, says Andy Symons, Chief Executive of Loyalty New Zealand, which manages the Fly Buys programme.

“We recognise New Zealanders’ high levels of commitment when saving points for their dream rewards – once they reach their target, and choose their reward, what they really want is to enjoy it straight away – this new technology makes that possible,” Mr Symons says.

Loyalty New Zealand has been developing the technology to automatically load Members’ chosen rewards onto their card since late last year. Members can now order electronic rewards by phone, text or online and instantly present their cards at Noel Leeming or Kodak stores to collect them. Previously, Members who chose rewards that needed in-store collection, which account for almost half of all redeemed rewards, had to wait for up to 10 days for a voucher.

“The decision to develop this capability was about improving the service we offer the 2.2 million Kiwis who are Fly Buys Members – this technology is faster, easier and greener than the voucher system.”

The paperless system will remove up to 250,000 sheets of paper from our environment each year. The new technology was piloted in Noel Leeming and Kodak stores last month and has been very successful.

“We live in the age of technology – and more and more that technology is in the hands of consumers. New Zealanders choose to read their news online, check their bank accounts and pay bills online, and they can fly around the world with no need for a paper ticket.

“Kiwis adapt to new technology quickly, and expect it to simplify their lives. We recognised that the time was right to put the control in Members’ hands about when they pick up their rewards.

“We think this form of ‘instant gratification’ will particularly appeal to our younger Members – Generation Y-ers have grown up with the speed of technology, with texting and the internet, so they demand near-instant delivery of services. We expect to see a high uptake of this faster process with younger consumers.

“Fly Buys is New Zealand’s most successful customer rewards programme, with nearly three quarters of households participating. To remain at the leading edge of consumer rewards in New Zealand, we saw it as a priority to invest in this IT development which enhances our Members’ experience.”
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