I spend a lot of money. In fact, I excel at spending money. But, one thing I have learned with all my spending, is not all companies are created equal. And, when I find a company I can relate to, find their products to be exceptional and their service impeccable. Well, I become something different. I become a brand super-fanatic.
When I find these great companies, I give them my business; Marriott Hotels, over 4900 nights stayed. Walt Disney Company, yes I am a Disneyophile, I get there as much as possible. Chick-Fil-A, yes, I eat there several times a week. I even tried to buy a Chick-Fil-A franchise. But, the competition was so stiff, I was turned down. No hard feelings though Chick-Fil-A!
I believe as a brand fanatic, that my loyalty to my favorite companies warrants unique rewards and compensation in return for being a brand fanatic. That means I expect something back for giving so much of my Average Joe dollars; free hotel nights, free theme park visits, a free meal on occasion. Just something as a thank-you.
And corporations are pouncing on this idea of building a super consumer base. They know the competition is stiff. And, every year, new companies are emerging trying to steal corporate share from one another. This creates stiff competition among the companies. And, an Average Joe Arbitrage opportunity.
Chick-Fil-A is one of my go-to restaurants. I travel extensively all over the United States and whenever I need a break, if I can find a Chick-Fil-A, you will find me there. I know I am always guaranteed clean bathrooms, great food, and exceptional service.
About a year ago, I downloaded the Chick-fil-A app. And, I will attest that this is one of best reward apps that this Average Joe has ever used. I find that on average I get a free treat reward with about every 6 purchases. And, when you eat out about every 10 meals, every rebate helps! What’s more, I frequently receive just “thank-you” treats. About on average, I receive something for free every two weeks; it could be a breakfast sandwich, a dessert, or chicken sandwich. Just a little something to keep me thinking about my favorite chicken sandwhich.
The Chick-fil-A app is more than just a rewards app. It is a social media platform that encourages interacting with the store owner operators. That app provides a photograph and video introduction to meet the store owner/operators. They in turn, get to know me and email me on occasion.
This morning, I opened my emails and I found a very nice email from David Grimm of the Des Moines Chick-Fil-A;
Dear Eric,
Our team is so excited that you chose to join Chick-fil-A One and pay a visit to our restaurant. We hope you will continue to explore the benefits of this new digital experience. Because you are a part of Chick-fil-A One, we want to let you know that we are serving a Free Small Hot Coffee Monday through Saturday from 6:30 am to 10:30 am all year long. There is no catch. Stop by and get yours on your way to work. Have a wonderful day EVERY DAY from Chick-fil-A University Ave!
A wonderful gesture from Mr. Grimm. And, quite the way to generate and reward brand fanaticism!
From the Average Joe perspective, Mr. Grimm just offered me a free small coffee. A retail value of $1.65, for 6 days a week, for the next 44 weeks. This equates into a retail value of $435.60.
Not a bad reward for being a brand fanatic!
If you are a brand fanatic and have a favorite company, tell me about. I am always looking for more ways to expand my loyalty and in return, be rewarded for my, loyalty.
