Sign in to view
member only content

Facebook credits are a virtual currency that can be purchased with a credit or debit card to buy virtual goods in games and apps on the Facebook platform. However, never before have they been earned through purchasing goods offline. That is until Plink — a credits-based loyalty program that rewards Facebook users for dining at chain restaurants.

Launched last month, Plink was created to help restaurants and offline retailers reach and motive their customers online. To start using the program, consumers log in via their Facebook account, register the debit or credit they use when eating out and select the restaurants and shops they visit most. Plink then rewards diners with credits for each transaction made at one of those participating stores. Designed with ease of use in mind, no paper coupons or staff training are required. Credits can be used to buy music downloads, movies and TV episodes, as well as virtual goods in Facebook games. The program is free for consumers to join and Plink receive a payment from their partners — such as Quiznos, Taco Bell and Dunkin’ Donuts — each time a registered card is used in their restaurant or shop. Consumers can choose from more than 25,000 participating venues across the US.

The Plink platform taps into the potential of 800 million Facebook users, rewarding them for their offline purchases and motivating loyal behaviour. With 50 percent of purchases still made offline, inspiration here to improve your customer rewards scheme?

Spotted by: Raymond Neo