Online shopping rewards · Sep 19 by Admin
The advent of online shopping has resulted in a large amount of rewards programs developing offering rewards for shopping through spectific shopping portals. These rewards can be points based (allowing redemption for various prizes), cashback, airline frequent flyer miles based, hotel points, or even in some cases donations to charity.
Many sites were launched in the late 90’s, with almost as many (Beenz, trocamania etc) failing. Others survived and thrived including re-inventions of existing programs (such as S&H Greenpoints and online evolution of the old Greenstamps concept). With the amount of programs available it is wise to do your research – check comparison sites like Andrew’s Online Loyalty Resources, Sdrawer, or discussion boards like Flyertalk or Fatwallet.
It is important to remember that (with the exception of cashback rewards) each rewards program values its points differently so before you purchase through one of the point or mile based programs compare the points you will earn with the specific reward you choose.
Another thing to remember is that because of the highly competitive nature of online commerce – many of the shopping portals offer coupons or discount offers not available if you purchase directly through the merchant site, so in addition to receiving points towards a reward of your choice you can also save money up front.
Rewards portals exist in most major markets, most notibly in the US, UK, and Australia
