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March 27, 2025

Salon loyalty programs to boost client retention

Keeping clients loyal is a challenge for any salon. Great service brings them in, but what keeps them coming back?

Loyalty programs reward repeat visits and build stronger relationships. They create a sense of value, making clients feel appreciated. The result? More bookings, better retention, and a thriving salon.

GoodCall takes this to the next level. Its AI-driven platform helps salons streamline communication, automate engagement, and enhance customer experience. When paired with a strong loyalty program, it keeps clients connected and coming back for more.

What Is a Salon Loyalty Program?

A salon loyalty program is a structured way to reward clients for their repeat visits. It’s designed to encourage long-term relationships by offering incentives that make customers feel valued. In return, salons benefit from increased retention and consistent revenue.

Some salons offer exclusive perks like early access to new products, VIP event invitations, or priority booking. These extra touches make clients feel appreciated, strengthening their connection to the salon.

A well-designed loyalty program isn’t just about discounts—it’s about building relationships. When clients feel recognized and rewarded, they’re more likely to stay loyal and recommend your salon to others.

Types Of Loyalty Programs

A well-designed loyalty program keeps clients engaged and coming back for more. There are several ways to structure a rewards system, each with its own benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective types.

Punch Card Loyalty Program

The punch card system is a simple yet effective way to encourage repeat visits. Clients receive a physical or digital card that gets stamped or punched with each qualifying purchase. Once they reach a set number of visits, they unlock a free service or product.

This method is easy to implement and requires minimal effort from clients, making it a great option for salons looking for a straightforward approach. While traditional paper punch cards have been around for years, many businesses now offer digital versions through apps or customer accounts for a more seamless experience.

Points-Based Loyalty Program

A points system offers a more flexible and engaging way to reward clients. Every time a customer makes a purchase, they earn points based on the amount spent. These points can later be redeemed for discounts, free services, or exclusive perks.

For example, clients might earn points for:

  • Booking a treatment
  • Purchasing retail products
  • Referring a friend
  • Leaving an online review

Unlike punch cards, a points-based system allows for more customization and personalization. You can assign different values to specific actions, encouraging clients to engage with your salon in multiple ways beyond just making purchases.

Membership-Based Loyalty Program

Membership programs provide an exclusive experience while ensuring a steady stream of revenue for your salon. Clients pay a monthly or annual fee in exchange for special benefits, such as:

  • Exclusive discounts on services and products
  • Priority booking or VIP access
  • Monthly service credits that can be redeemed later

This model works particularly well for high-end salons and spas, as it encourages long-term commitment while providing ongoing value to members. It also creates a sense of exclusivity, making clients feel like they’re part of a special community.

Tiered Loyalty Program

A tiered system adds an element of progression to your rewards program. Clients start at a base level and move up to higher tiers as they accumulate points or spend more. Each level offers increasingly valuable perks, motivating clients to reach the next stage.

For example, you could structure your tiers as:

  • Silver: Basic rewards and occasional discounts
  • Gold: Higher discounts, priority booking, and bonus points
  • Platinum: VIP treatment, free add-ons, and exclusive services

This type of program encourages long-term engagement and larger spending, as clients strive to unlock better benefits.

Review and Social Sharing Rewards

Word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly valuable for salons, and a review-based loyalty program leverages that power. Clients earn points for:

  • Leaving a review on Google, Yelp, or your website
  • Posting before-and-after photos of their service on social media
  • Tagging your salon in their posts or stories

To keep engagement high, consider offering occasional bonus challenges, such as rewarding video testimonials or themed review contests. Not only does this generate buzz around your business, but it also strengthens your salon’s online presence.

The best loyalty program is the one that aligns with your salon’s goals and client preferences. Whether you choose a simple punch card or a more advanced tiered system, the key is to make it easy, rewarding, and fun for your customers.

Why Does Your Salon Need a Loyalty Program?

A salon loyalty program isn’t just a nice perk—it’s a smart business strategy. It keeps clients coming back, increases their spending, and strengthens your brand. Here’s why implementing one can be a game-changer for your salon.

Boosts Client Retention

Repeat clients are the backbone of a successful salon. A loyalty program encourages them to return by offering rewards that make them feel valued. When clients know they’ll earn points, discounts, or exclusive perks, they have a reason to book their next appointment with you instead of trying a competitor.

Attracts New Clients

A well-promoted loyalty program can bring in new customers. People love businesses that offer added value, and a strong rewards system can set your salon apart. Referral bonuses, first-time visit perks, and special incentives create buzz, helping you grow your client base while turning new visitors into loyal regulars.

Strengthens Brand Reputation

A customer-focused loyalty program reinforces your salon’s reputation as a welcoming and professional space. Clients who feel appreciated are more likely to share positive reviews, recommend your services, and engage with your brand on social media. This kind of word-of-mouth marketing builds trust and credibility, making your salon a go-to destination.

Increases Client Engagement

Regular communication is key to maintaining relationships with your clients. A loyalty program gives you a reason to stay in touch through exclusive offers, birthday rewards, and personalized promotions. This ongoing interaction keeps your salon top of mind, making clients feel connected and appreciated.

Encourages More Referrals

Happy clients naturally recommend businesses they love. When your loyalty program includes referral bonuses, it turns satisfied customers into brand advocates. They’ll be more motivated to tell their friends and family about your salon, bringing in new clients at little to no marketing cost.

Fills Appointment Gaps

Slow days can be a challenge for any salon. Loyalty programs help by incentivizing visits during off-peak times. Special promotions, bonus points, or discounts for midweek appointments encourage clients to book when your schedule isn’t full, keeping revenue steady throughout the week.

Makes Upselling and Cross-Selling Easier

Loyal clients trust your recommendations. A loyalty program makes it easier to introduce them to new services and products. If they earn rewards for trying a premium treatment or purchasing retail items, they’re more likely to say yes. This boosts their overall experience while increasing your revenue.

Drives Higher Spending Per Visit

Clients who participate in loyalty programs tend to spend more. Knowing they’re working toward a reward, they might add an extra service, buy a product, or upgrade their treatment. Over time, these small increases lead to significant growth in your salon’s earnings.

A well-designed loyalty program does more than just reward clients—it builds lasting relationships, strengthens your business, and keeps your salon thriving.

How to Set Up a Loyalty Program For Your Salon?

A well-executed loyalty program can strengthen client relationships and drive business growth. To ensure success, you’ll need a strategic approach that keeps clients engaged while benefiting your salon. Follow these steps to create a loyalty program that works.

Step 1: Define Your Objectives

Start by identifying what you want to accomplish. Are you aiming to increase repeat visits, boost revenue, introduce clients to new services, or grow your customer base?

If client retention is your priority, focus on rewards that make clients feel appreciated, such as exclusive perks or discounts. If increasing sales is the goal, a points-based system that encourages spending may be the best approach. Setting clear objectives will help shape your program and make it easier to track success.

Step 2: Select the Right Program Format

Choose a loyalty structure that aligns with your salon’s size, clientele, and budget. Different models work better for different businesses:

  • Points-based system – Ideal for salons with frequent visitors who enjoy accumulating points for rewards.
  • Tiered program – Great for encouraging higher spending, as clients unlock better rewards at different levels.
  • Punch cards – A simple, low-tech option that works well for small salons, offering a free service after a set number of visits.
  • Membership program – Perfect for clients willing to commit to a monthly or yearly plan in exchange for premium benefits.
  • Referral program – Encourages word-of-mouth growth by rewarding clients who bring in new customers.

Step 3: Establish Clear Rules and Rewards

Outline how clients can earn and redeem rewards. Keep it simple—complex systems can discourage participation. Set clear guidelines, such as:

  • How points are accumulated and redeemed
  • Spending thresholds for different tiers
  • The number of visits required for a free service in a punch card program
  • Expiration policies for points or rewards

Offer appealing incentives like service discounts, complimentary add-ons, or priority booking. The easier and more rewarding the program feels, the more likely clients will stay engaged.

Step 4: Promote Your Loyalty Program

A great program won’t work if clients don’t know about it. Use multiple channels to spread the word:

  • In-salon displays – Place posters or flyers where clients can easily see them.
  • Social media – Share engaging posts that highlight the program’s benefits and feature real client rewards.
  • Website updates – Add a dedicated page explaining the program and use pop-ups or banners to encourage sign-ups.
  • Email and SMS campaigns – Notify existing clients with clear calls to action and exclusive sign-up incentives.
  • Staff involvement – Train your team to introduce the program at checkout and explain how clients can benefit.

Step 5: Track Performance and Make Adjustments

Use salon software or loyalty tracking tools to monitor participation, spending habits, and redemption rates. Regularly review the data to identify what’s working and where improvements are needed.

  • Collect feedback – Ask clients for their thoughts through surveys or casual conversations.
  • Adjust rewards – Update perks or introduce seasonal promotions based on feedback and data insights.
  • Evaluate ROI – Measure how the program impacts revenue and retention. If results aren’t meeting expectations, tweak the structure or try new incentives.

With a well-planned loyalty program, you can strengthen client loyalty while growing your salon’s success. Keep it simple, engaging, and adaptable to maximize results.

How Goodcall Can Simplify Your Salon’s Loyalty Program

Running a loyalty program should enhance your business, not create extra work. Goodcall offers automated solutions that streamline the process, making it easier to manage while keeping clients engaged. Here’s how it can help:

Automate Rewards and Tracking

Manually tracking points and rewards can be a hassle, but Goodcall automates the process. Clients can earn and redeem rewards seamlessly, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. This not only saves time but also reduces errors, creating a smoother experience for both staff and clients.

Enhance Client Communication

A successful loyalty program thrives on engagement, and Goodcall makes it simple. With AI-powered voice and text messaging, you can send personalized updates, promotions, and reward reminders. Automated follow-ups help keep clients informed and encourage repeat visits without added effort.

Simplify Booking and Inquiries

Clients often have questions about their rewards or need to schedule appointments. Goodcall’s AI-driven phone system can handle these inquiries 24/7, allowing clients to check their points, book services, or learn about promotions without waiting for a staff member. This reduces workload and improves customer satisfaction.

Gain Valuable Data Insights

Understanding client behavior is key to improving your loyalty program. Goodcall provides real-time analytics on client participation, spending habits, and program performance. With these insights, you can refine your rewards system, introduce targeted promotions, and maximize program effectiveness.

Increase Client Retention with Personalized Offers

Goodcall helps you tailor rewards based on client preferences. By analyzing past visits and purchases, you can send customized offers that feel personal and relevant. Whether it’s a birthday discount or a special upgrade, personalized incentives make clients more likely to stay loyal to your salon.

By integrating Goodcall, you can automate and optimize your loyalty program, giving your clients a seamless experience while reducing the workload for your team.

Wrap-Up!

A well-designed loyalty program can transform client relationships, encouraging repeat visits and long-term commitment to your salon. By setting clear goals, choosing the right structure, and keeping rewards simple yet enticing, you create a program that benefits both your business and your clients.

Promotion and engagement are key—use multiple channels to spread the word and train your staff to make sign-ups effortless. Once your program is running, regular tracking and adjustments will ensure it stays relevant and continues to drive results.

With tools like Goodcall, managing a loyalty program becomes even easier. Automation, personalized communication, and data insights help streamline the process, allowing you to focus on delivering excellent service while keeping clients engaged.

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Daniel Lannon

Daniel Lannon serves as the head of growth at Goodcall. His writing centers around artificial intelligence and how businesses can harness its capabilities to enhance customer support, capture leads, and foster growth.