American Express is expanding its longstanding Membership Rewards program points to serve as “Social Currency.” 

The big idea: when points are redeemed, they can be applied to a broad range of activities of a social and digital nature — as AmEx demonstrated in a unique partnership with Foursquare at South by Southwest.Continue reading...

British supermarket chain Tesco has been hard hit by the recession. After its October 2007 peak, the grocer suffered a swift descent as rivals capitalized on consumer demand for thrift.

But happy days are here again for Tesco, thanks to improved benefits offered by its Clubcard loyalty program. After doubling the points accrued by members, the chain watched its sales growth rate climb 4.7%, and their growth in market share increase by 4.4%.

The retooling of the Clubcard program doesn’t just benefit consumers; Tesco uses the program to collect detailed data about shopper’s habits and preferences. Tesco expects more rewards from the Clubcard program in the coming weeks, as shoppers receive vouchers in the mail in time for the holiday season.Continue reading...