Nectar for Business launches in the UK

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By: Wise Marketer Staff |

Posted on January 24, 2005

Nectar for Business launches in the UK

Loyalty Management UK, the operator of the UK's popular Nectar coalition loyalty programme, has launched a new version of the scheme, aimed at small businesses. The new Nectar for Business programme offers points for everyday business purchases, from stationery and catering supplies to van hire and decorators' materials.

Nectar for Business is an extension of the Nectar programme (through which consumers earn points from a number of retailers), with a number of well known business sponsors (suppliers that issue points) having already been signed up. These already include Viking Direct, ICI Dulux Decorator Centres, Brakes, EDF Energy, Hertz UK and Magnet Trade outlets. As with the original Nectar programme for consumers, more partners are expected to be added over time. However, points can also be collected through the other consumer-oriented sponsors in the existing Nectar programme.

Points collected with Nectar for Business can then be redeemed for a range of rewards either for the business or its staff, including computers and office equipment, cases of wine, flights to Paris, a day at the races, and tickets for a rugby match. Points can also be redeemed for any of the existing consumer rewards provided by the original Nectar programme. Alternatively, businesses may choose to donate their points to NCH - the chosen charity for Nectar for Business.

Demand identified "The current Nectar programme has grown phenomenally since it launched back in September 2002, with seventeen sponsors now onboard, over 6000 places to collect points, and half of all UK households now actively using Nectar cards," said LMUK's chief executive, Rob Gierkink.

According to Gierkink, there are more than 3.5 million sole traders and small businesses in the UK, and the new extension of Nectar is expected to be well received by business owners who want to be  rewarded for their many purchases from suppliers.

Key advantages "Developing Nectar for Business was a logical next step for us. Within our existing collectors we have over 800,000 who have indicated that they run their own businesses," explained Gierkink. "In talking to them they welcomed the concept of being able to earn points on their business purchases as well."

The key advantages for the business sponsors include: access to a strong outsourced loyalty programme with shared resources; participation in Nectar for Business which is dedicated to the B2B (business to business) sector; increased customer loyalty; and the opportunity to attract new customers.

Joining in Sole traders and companies wishing to enrol in the programme can either register at the Nectar for Business web site (and receive 100 bonus points), or complete a registration form provided by any of the business sponsors, or call the Nectar Helpline on 0870 410 0100 (UK only).

LMUK's management team has a combined total of over 90 years' of experience in the loyalty market, and have been responsible for launching similar loyalty programmes in Holland, Spain, United Arab Emirates, and Canada.

More Info: 

http://www.nectarforbusiness.com