Loyalty system launched for small retailers
A new ‘low cost’ loyalty system has been launched for smaller retailers by UK-based Htec.
The GemPOINTS loyalty system incorporates uses smartcard technology to enable retailers to operate their own loyalty scheme, issuing and redeeming points in the same way large high street loyalty schemes are run. Retailers can use it to run marketing promotions or special offers and Htec says it allows collaboration between retailers to maintain longer-term customer loyalty.
Jeff Dakin, head of data services at Htec, commented: “Small to medium-sized retailers have always argued that the costs, complexity and security are reasons for not using technology-based loyalty schemes. GemPOINTS was created to address these concerns using a simplified approach that dispenses with the need for any back office infrastructure such as IT communications.”
The system is powered from a standard 3-pin mains power socket. The terminal is the size of paperback book and features a terminal display and keypad for security code entry.
The retailer is given auditing and optional administration functions to support features such as multiple tariffs, automatic bonus periods for running happy hour promotions on hourly, daily or weekly basis. Customers are given smartcards by the retailer, which are used to carry the accrued points and current balances.