Panera Breads Unveils New Loyalty Program as Research Highlights Loyalty as a Revenue Driver
Panera Bread is rolling out a new, points-based MyPanera loyalty program across 216 cafés, signaling a renewed push to deepen customer engagement and strengthen long-term relationships. The initiative reflects how loyalty programs—once simple reward systems—have evolved into powerful strategic growth engines for modern brands.
While loyalty programs may feel like a digital-age invention tied to apps and mobile wallets, their origins stretch back centuries. Historians trace one of the earliest structured loyalty efforts to the 18th century. The New York Times points out that a New Hampshire merchant rewarded repeat customers with copper tokens. Though the tools have evolved from metal coins to sophisticated mobile platforms, the core principle remains unchanged: reward customers to encourage repeat business.
At the heart of loyalty programs is a powerful psychological driver—reciprocity. When businesses offer customers something extra, such as discounts, free items, or exclusive perks, consumers naturally feel inclined to return the favor. This dynamic has shaped purchasing behavior for generations. Today, loyalty programs do far more than build goodwill; they directly drive revenue. Research from iOrders shows that loyalty members spend 32% more annually than nonmembers, reinforcing their impact on average order value and customer lifetime value. Even though 75% of consumers say they prefer brands that offer rewards, only 57% of restaurants fully optimize their loyalty strategies, creating a clear opportunity for brands like Panera to lead in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Learn more about joining the MyPanera loyalty program here.
Frontier Airlines Redeems a 30-Year-Old Promise with 7 Million Miles
Thirty years after a famous Big Game promotion promised a jet in exchange for points, Frontier Airlines is rewriting the ending. John Leonard famously tried to claim the prize by collecting 7 million points but walked away empty-handed, a story later spotlighted in a widely viewed documentary. Now, Frontier is stepping in to honor that long-ago effort by converting Leonard’s original 7 million points into 7 million Frontier Miles, enough for free flights for life.
Frontier Airlines SVP and Chief Commercial Officer Bobby Schroeter said, We’re redefining air travel, providing real value through the most rewarding loyalty program in the sky. We’re not only giving redemption to John, but also to consumers who have been left behind by other loyalty programs.”
The airline is also extending the spirit of redemption to everyday travelers. From February 5 through February 22, 2026, consumers can trade in unused reward points from other brands and receive up to 5,000 free Frontier Miles, enough for an award flight, depending on availability and season. With the Frontier Loyalty Program, members can earn up to 20X miles or points for each dollar spent, achieve elite status up to five times faster than with competing airlines, and redeem free flights up to twice as quickly. Attainable elite perks include free checked bags, companion travel benefits, seat upgrades, and the addition of First Class later this year.
Learn more here.
Piada Brings Back Stickscription for 2026, Offering Daily Perks to Loyalty Program Members
Piada Italian Street Food has announced the return of its popular Stickscription program for a third consecutive year, giving Piada One loyalty members an affordable way to upgrade their meals in 2026. For a limited time through February 28, members can purchase the annual subscription for $30 and receive one free fresh-baked pepperoni or parmesan Piada Stick and a fountain drink each day with the purchase of any adult entrée. The offer is available exclusively through the Piada One app and runs throughout the year.
Piada Chief Innovation Officer, Matt Harding, said, “Innovation starts with listening to our guests and continuously raising the bar on how we deliver value and quality. The Stickscription is rooted in what our guests love most, craveable, fresh-baked food that elevates every meal and reflects our commitment to exceeding expectations in simple, meaningful ways. By pairing our Piada Sticks with a fountain drink, we’ve created a high-value, everyday enhancement that allows guests to personalize their experience while highlighting the craftsmanship, flavor, and consistency that define the Piada menu.”
The Stickscription was created to reward loyal guests with everyday value while highlighting one of the brand’s most beloved menu items. Subscriptions must be purchased online through the Piada One app, though they can be redeemed for both dine-in and takeout orders. New customers can join the loyalty program to participate, but the offer can’t be combined with other promotions or discounts. Piada has also hinted at potential new stick flavors later this year, signaling continued innovation around one of its most popular menu staples.
Learn more about the Stickscription loyalty program here.
Original Article Links:
Panera Bread revamps loyalty to win customers after backlash
A Big Game Moment Comes Full Circle as John Leonard Finally Gets Redemption - 30 Years After He Collected Enough Rewards Points for a Jet
Piada Italian Street Food Brings Back Subscription Offer