STRATEGIC PARTNERS
January 25, 2011
Qdoba Mexican Grill has rolled out its new Qdoba Rewards program, an electronic campaign that identifies loyal guests and offers them greater flexibility and opportunities to redeem rewards.
Qdoba's enhanced program now gives guests the ability to flash a scannable card, key fob or a small sticker that can be placed on any commonly carried object — such as a driver's license, a credit card or even a tube of lipstick — at the register to earn points toward free meals.
In addition, the program now allows guests to bank their rewards and use them whenever they want, a feature that was in high demand.
"Our guest research found that approximately 73 percent of our current rewards members were happy with our program but wanted more flexibility with it — like being able to bank their points and use them later," said Chris Bingel, marketing projects manager at Qdoba. "The new Qdoba Rewards gives customers greater choices in how to earn their rewards and greater control over when they can redeem them."
To quantify, for each entrée purchased in most markets, guests will earn 100 reward points. Once 1,000 points are earned, guests will receive one free entrée. In addition, guests will receive free food and special offers once they register online on their birthday and on the anniversary of their sign-up day.
Guests can also opt to receive additional special offers via e-mail through the program.
Qdoba Rewards cards are available at any of the chain's 500 locations. From there, guests need to complete a quick online registration. To earn points and redeem rewards, consumers simply need to present their card, fob or sticker at the register to be scanned.
Rewards points can also be earned if a customer forgets their card or sticker. Those who do so will receive a receipt with a code that can then be entered online for point redemption. Codes will expire 30 days after being issued.
Qdoba Rewards also incentivizes those who purchase Qdoba catering. Customers earn one point for every pre-tax dollar spent and can qualify to spend their points on free entrées, catering discounts or Hallmark gift certificates. Catering points can be redeemed online or banked, as well.
Qdoba's first rewards program was launched in 2004. Bingel said the company will continue to grow and develop the program to meet customers' needs and fit their lifestyles.
