6 Loyalty Trends to Watch in 2026 (and What 2025 Taught Us)

2025 proved that loyalty programs are no longer “set it and forget it.” Inflation, shifting consumer expectations, and rapid advances in AI forced brands to move faster and think bigger. 

I saw this in my own life, whether it’s grabbing a coffee with my favorite punch card or entering my Target RedCard number at checkout to see discounts appear, those small, immediate rewards make a difference. 

Members now expect this same instant value from loyalty programs, whether they're shopping online, booking travel,  or supporting a cause they care about. Here's a quick look back at what we learned in 2025 and the trends set to shape loyalty and membership benefits in 2026. 

What 2025 Taught Us

2025 taught us that loyalty programs can't just sit on the shelf; they need to keep up with members' evolving expectations. From instant rewards that make everyday purchases feel special to AI-powered personalization, programs that adapt and integrate into members' daily lives are winning. Here's a closer look at five trends that shaped loyalty in 2025 and are paving the way for 2026. 

1. Instant Rewards Matter

Members expect value they can feel immediately, whether it’s a discount at checkout, points earned instantly, or quick access to perks.

Example: Amazon Prime members get instant perks like free shipping and exclusive deals; credit card holders see points earned immediately on purchases that can be redeemed for discounts on future orders.

2. AI-Driven Personalization

Programs increasingly used AI to recommend products, travel, or experiences tailored to member behavior and preferences.

Example: Starbucks Rewards’ AI analyzes your past orders and preferences to suggest drinks, snacks, or promotions you’re likely to enjoy. Personalized offers are sent via the app, increasing engagement and redemption.

3. Integration Into Everyday Life

Loyalty moved beyond isolated rewards; members engage via grocery, coffee, rideshare, and other everyday activities.

Example: Target Circle members earn discounts and personalize deals on groceries and household items. Savings apply directly at checkout, reinforcing value in everyday shopping. 

4. Omnichannel Engagement 

Consistent messaging and offers across apps, websites, email, and in-store experiences became crucial.

Example: Sephora Beauty Insider's personalized offers, product recommendations, and points promotions appear on the Sephora website, mobile app, email newsletters, and in-store, creating a seamless omnichannel experience. 

5. Flexible Redemption Options

Members wanted more ways to redeem points or rewards, including for experiences, travel, and charitable causes.

Example: Marriott Bonvoy members can redeem points not only for hotel stays but also for experiences like concerts, guided tours, and culinary events. 

5 Loyalty Trends to Watch in 2026

Loyalty programs are evolving faster than ever, and 2026 promises to bring exciting new ways for brands to connect with members. From AI-driven personalization to eco-conscious rewards, programs are focusing on creating seamless, meaningful experiences that keep members engaged and coming back. Here are five key trends shaping the future of loyalty and membership benefits.

1. Hyper-Personalization & AI

Loyalty programs will leverage AI to understand customer behavior and deliver highly personalized offers and experiences across all channels. 

Companies utilizing AI-powered personalization report up to 35% higher redemption rates compared to traditional segmentation methods.  

2. Omnichannel Consistency

Expect a seamless blend of digital and physical touchpoints, ensuring a consistent and convenient experience for members.

Omnichannel customers make purchases 1.7 times more frequently than those using a single channel.

3. Sustainability & Ethics

Brands will incorporate eco-friendly options and ethical considerations into loyalty programs, appealing to a growing consumer demand for socially responsible companies. 

60% of consumers consider sustainable features important in loyalty programs, with 31% desiring sustainability-focused rewards.

4. Subscription & Tiered Models 

Businesses will explore subscription-based loyalty programs and tiered systems to provide ongoing value and encourage long-term commitment. 

74% of customers increase brand interactions when offered access to higher status levels in tiered loyalty programs.

5. Strategic Partnerships 

Brands will form partnerships to offer broader rewards and expand their loyalty reach, creating more comprehensive value for members. 

Brands that form strategic partnerships to offer broader rewards and expand their loyalty reach create more comprehensive value for members. 

The Loyalty Landscape Is Changing. Are You Ready?

As loyalty programs continue to evolve, one thing is clear: members want value they can see, feel, and use every day. The programs that win in 2026 will be the ones that deliver instant rewards, personalize every interaction, meet members wherever they are, and offer more flexibility and choice than ever before.

That’s exactly where Access Development comes in.

For decades, we’ve helped organizations create loyalty and membership programs that go far beyond the basics. With the nation’s largest private discount network, featuring savings on everyday purchases, travel, entertainment, dining, and more, we help brands deliver immediate, meaningful value to their members. Our platform supports personalization, omnichannel delivery, flexible redemption, partnerships, and even cause-based rewards, giving you everything you need to stay ahead of the trends.

Loyalty is no longer about transactions—it’s about connection, relevance, and impact.

If you’re ready to build a program that members actually use (and love), Access can help you turn these trends into real results.

Want to learn more?  Let's talk.