What keeps subscribers loyal?

Subscriber loyalty is a fragile asset, earned and re-earned every month by consistently delivering on the core promises of value and quality. When consumers who plan to keep their services were asked for their reasoning, the top answers were overwhelmingly practical: good value for money (58%) and high-quality service (54%).

of subscribers report having access to loyalty benefits

Despite their importance, loyalty programs appear to be an underutilized retention tool. Brands can create differentiation and foster deeper relationships by building rewards programs that offer high value for their long-term subscribers. When asked what they want from such programs, users are clear: they want “discounts and special offers.” This is across almost all verticals, however, secondary benefits often vary by category, highlighting the need for a tailored approach.

Top two most desired loyalty benefits by vertical

Vertical
Most desired loyalty benefit
Secondary most desired loyalty benefit
Beauty
Discounts and special offers
42%
Loyalty points
27%
Consumer goods & retail
Discounts and special offers
38%
Early access to new content/products
27%
Food
Discounts and special offers
44%
Exclusive content/products
30%
Gaming
Discounts and special offers
44%
Early access to new content/products
32%
Health & fitness
Exclusive content/products
41%
Discounts and special offers
35%
In-person entertainment
Discounts and special offers
33%
Loyalty points
30%
News/Reading
Discounts and special offers
48%
Exclusive content/products
28%
Pet products
Discounts and special offers
46%
Loyalty points
28%
Software
Discounts and special offers
35%
Exclusive content/products
28%
Streaming audio
Discounts and special offers
42%
Exclusive content/products
33%
Streaming video
Discounts and special offers
44%
Exclusive content/products
30%
Travel
Discounts and special offers
36%
Loyalty points
28%
Wine/Alcohol
Discounts and special offers
34%
Loyalty points
28%

You should always be looking to boost the value of your subscription to subscribers whether through products, features, or loyalty programs. Brands can and should implement loyalty programs focused on tangible rewards. Given that so few merchants offer these benefits, a well-executed program centered on exclusive access and special discounts can be a powerful differentiator that strengthens customer bonds.

“...We are continuing to layer on lots of different perks so that, even if you didn’t like all the products in your box, you’re still getting so much value from the overall membership.”

— Katie Rosen Kitchens, Co-Founder, FabFitFun

sales@recurly.com

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