Digital Loyalty Card for Restaurants — Punch Cards Are History
Last updated: 2026-03-08
What is a digital loyalty card?
A digital loyalty card replaces the classic paper stamp card with a solution on the guest's smartphone. Instead of stamps, the guest collects digital points — by scanning a QR code during their visit. According to Bond Brand Loyalty, 79% of consumers use loyalty programs, but 44% forget their physical card. Digital solves exactly this problem.
Digital vs. paper loyalty card — Which is better?
Paper punch cards have three problems: they get forgotten, lost or abused (self-stamping). Digital loyalty cards solve all three: they are always on the smartphone, cannot be lost and are tamper-proof. Additionally, you get data: How often does a guest visit? When was their last visit? These insights help you target your regulars.
How do I set up a digital loyalty card?
With Sitence Premium, the digital loyalty card is integrated. Setup in 3 steps: 1) Activate the loyalty card in your dashboard and choose the reward (e.g. 'Every 10th coffee free'). 2) Print the QR code and place it at the checkout. 3) Guests scan on each visit — done. No app installation needed, works in the browser.
Is a digital loyalty card worth it? The ROI calculation
Example calculation for a café: 200 active loyalty card users, average 4€ per visit, 1 additional visit per month through the loyalty program. That's 800€ additional monthly revenue. With Sitence costs of 99€/month (Premium), ROI is positive from the first month. Plus: regulars spend on average 67% more than new customers.
Best practices for restaurant loyalty programs
The key rules: Keep the reward achievable (no more than 10 visits). Communicate progress clearly ('3 more visits until your free dessert'). Surprise occasionally with bonus points. And: actively promote the loyalty card — a QR code on the table isn't enough, tell your guests about it.