A custom loyalty app gives you full control over the look, the features and the data, but it costs a lot to build and keep up, and customers have to download it first. Regulars puts a stamp or points card straight into Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, so there is nothing to download and you can start in an afternoon. A custom app makes sense for a big chain with a tech team and a reason to build ordering or payments. For most local shops, a wallet card is the simpler fit.
How does a loyalty app compare to a wallet card?
The biggest difference is the download. An app needs one. A wallet card does not.
| Regulars | Custom loyalty app | |
|---|---|---|
| How customers join | Scan a QR code or tap a link, type a first name, tap Add to Wallet | Find the app in the store, download it, make an account |
| Apple Wallet / Google Wallet | Yes, the card lives there | Varies, depends on what you build |
| Hardware needed | No. Any phone or tablet camera | Varies, depends on how you set up stamping |
| Messaging | Lock screen messages, 6 automatic messages | Push notifications, if the customer allows them |
| Features | Stamps or points, messages, reports | Anything you pay to build |
| Pricing model | Monthly plan from $49 USD | Build cost, then ongoing upkeep and store fees |
| Contract | No contract, 30-day free trial | Varies by developer |
Sources: Regulars plan details on our pricing section. App costs vary widely by developer and features, so get quotes.
When is a custom loyalty app a good fit?
A custom app is a good fit when loyalty is only one part of a bigger plan.
- 🏢 You're a large chain. You have the budget and a team to run it.
- 🛒 You want ordering or payments. Order ahead, pay in the app, then earn points.
- 🎨 You want full control. Every screen and every feature is yours to design.
- 📊 You need deep data hookups. A custom build can connect to your own systems.
When is Regulars a better fit?
Regulars is a better fit when you want a loyalty card your customers will actually add, without a build project.
- 📲 No download. Apple Wallet and Google Wallet are already on the phone. Read how to run a loyalty program without an app.
- ⚡ Fast to start. Make your card, print the poster, start stamping.
- 💵 A clear monthly price. Starter is $49 a month. No build bill.
- 🔔 Messages without an app. Lock screen messages show right on the card.
- 🤖 Six automatic messages. Welcome, almost there, reward ready, we miss you, birthday and slow day boost.
- 🔧 Nothing to maintain. No app updates and no store reviews to wait on.
Want to see the costs side by side? Read how much a loyalty program costs.
How do I switch from a loyalty app to Regulars?
You can launch Regulars beside your app and move people over at your own pace.
- Match your reward. Set the same stamp target or points rules.
- Send one last app message. Point members to your new Regulars link.
- Put up the poster. New customers scan and add the card at the counter.
- Honour old points. Give a few stamps for what members had, then retire the app.
Dig it: your regulars get a card they never have to update.
Questions people ask
Should a small shop build its own loyalty app?
Usually not. A custom app costs a lot to build and keep up, and customers have to download it first. It makes more sense for large chains with their own tech team.
Do customers download loyalty apps for local shops?
Many don't want another app for one shop. A wallet card skips that step, because Apple Wallet and Google Wallet are already on their phone.
Can a wallet card send notifications like an app?
Yes, in a simpler way. Regulars can send short messages that show on the card and can pop up on the lock screen. Customers can turn them off anytime.
What can a custom app do that Regulars can't?
A custom app can do almost anything you pay for, like ordering ahead, payments or gift cards. Regulars focuses on stamp and points cards and messages to your regulars.
Do I own my customer list with Regulars?
Yes. Your customer list belongs to you, and Regulars never sells data.
