The Shift from Transactions to Engagement

In the early days, the industry was dominated by plastic cards. However, the awards highlighted a seismic shift toward wallet-based loyalty and real-time engagement. If you want to see a real example of a digital loyalty card platform, FanCircles shows what is possible with tools that make wallet passes that live in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet work to their maximum capabilities.

Why Digital Loyalty Cards Are Replacing Plastic Cards

  • Zero friction signups, with customers adding a loyalty card to their phone wallet pass.
  • Real time updates and offers, without relying on email open rates.
  • Wallet pass platform notifications that bring customers back at the right moment.

Industry Insight 2026

"True loyalty is now action-based, not just purchase-based."

See a Digital Loyalty Card platform Example

Quick FAQs

What is a digital loyalty card?

A digital loyalty card is a loyalty card that lives in a customer's phone wallet, typically inside Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, instead of being a plastic card.

Can loyalty cards work in Apple Wallet and Google Wallets?

Yes. Many loyalty programs now issue wallet-based loyalty cards so customers can add them instantly and keep them on their phone. FanCircles provides an example of a wallet loyalty card designed for engagement.

Do wallet loyalty cards support notifications?

In many cases, yes. Wallet-based loyalty cards can support lock screen notifications, which gives brands a direct engagement channel without needi