One of the most critical challenges for both big retailers and small neighborhood stores is to turn customers into returning customers. While there is no way of contractually forcing customers to keep coming back, membership programs are the next best thing. By selling customers membership cards, retailers can incentivise customers by offering them special deals and discount. It’s exactly what Amazon is doing with its Prime membership program. Apart from the big brands, small retail outlets are now investing in membership cards printing to retain their local customer base.

It really is a win-win scenario as customers get to avail great discounts and exclusive deals, while the stores issuing these cards get a promise of regular business. However, more often than not, customers get sweet-talked into buying a membership card that they just don’t need. Remember, it doesn’t really work if you are not a frequent buyer. As a smart consumer, you need to sidestep the marketing traps and decide if a membership program is worth the bucks. Here’re 4 tips to pick a membership program that’s right for you.
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