Airtime Rewards is revolutionising how consumer loyalty is managed by seamlessly linking mobile phones with bank cards, removing the need for physical loyalty cards. This technological advancement caters to the contemporary consumer, enhancing convenience and engagement.
The company, secured £1 million in funding, fuelling its expansion plans. CEO Adam Ward envisions competing with established schemes like Nectar, driven by a commitment to update and innovate the rewards market. The global potential of Airtime Rewards is significant, as they aim to integrate across various sectors, including fast fashion and travel.
Innovative Approach to Customer Loyalty
Airtime Rewards has dramatically reshaped the loyalty programme landscape by linking mobile phones directly with bank cards. This seamless integration eliminates the need for traditional loyalty cards, offering a more efficient consumer experience. The company collaborates with prominent retailers such as Waitrose and Debenhams, facilitating increased customer engagement and retention.
Significant Financial Backing
With a recent injection of £1 million, including £750,000 from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, Airtime Rewards is poised for significant growth. This investment supports the company’s expansion plans into new verticals such as fast fashion, travel, and hospitality. Co-founder and CEO Adam Ward emphasises that the rewards programme has substantial potential to rival renowned schemes like Nectar and similar products.”There is no reason why this can’t launch overseas too,” Ward asserts. “The rewards market is also significantly in need of updating.”
The substantial financial backing underscores the company’s potential to innovate within the market. It’s a strategic move, allowing Airtime Rewards to enhance its product offerings and reach a broader audience. The plan is to leverage this funding to support both domestic and international expansions.
The Vision for Global Expansion
Adam Ward has articulated a clear vision for Airtime Rewards’ international expansion. The strategy involves opening up the platform’s capability to allow other programs to integrate Airtime Rewards. This could potentially lead to collaborations where consumers can use points across different loyalty schemes.“Maybe later this year you might be able to use your Nectar points to reduce your mobile phone bill,” Ward suggests.
In the short term, the primary focus is on enhancing the user base and creating new employment opportunities. Airtime Rewards plans to generate 12 new jobs, with many roles situated in their new Manchester headquarters. This hub will manage their technical, product, and operations functions, reflecting a solid commitment to growth and innovation.
The strategic location in Manchester not only offers a vibrant business environment but also provides access to a pool of skilled professionals. This strategic move aligns with the company’s broader goal of establishing itself as a leader in digital rewards solutions. The focus on job creation underscores Airtime Rewards’ commitment to contributing to the local economy.
Reflections on a Pivotal Year
Reflecting on 2017, Adam Ward describes the year as pivotal. During this period, Airtime Rewards effectively demonstrated the market demand for their innovative technology. This validation cements their position as key players in the loyalty programme industry. As the rewards market continues to evolve, the company’s agile response positions it advantageously for upcoming changes.
Moreover, Airtime Rewards’ ability to adapt to consumer needs and leverage technological advancements highlights its strengths. The company remains well-placed to address challenges in the rewards market, offering flexible solutions that cater to both consumers and retailers.
The Future of FinTech and Airtime Rewards’ Role
Looking ahead, Airtime Rewards is set to participate in ‘The Future of FinTech’ events in London and Manchester. These forums are crucial for showcasing the company’s capabilities and exploring potential collaborations within the FinTech sector. Such engagements are integral to Airtime Rewards’ strategy to establish itself as a frontrunner in innovative rewards solutions.
Through these events, the company aims to foster relationships with key stakeholders and other industry players. It’s an opportunity to highlight their unique offering and strategic vision, setting the stage for future partnerships that could propel the company forward.
Commitment to Innovation and Local Growth
Airtime Rewards’ commitment to innovation is evident in its efforts to continuously evolve. By expanding its user base and diversifying its offerings across different verticals, the company is actively shaping the future of the rewards industry. The Manchester base serves not only as a hub for the company’s operational and technical efforts but also as a symbol of its dedication to supporting local economic growth.
Creating jobs in Manchester is a testament to the company’s long-term strategic vision, ensuring sustainable expansion and community involvement as key priorities.
Conclusion
As Airtime Rewards gears up for global expansion, its innovative approach and strategic foresight position it as a formidable contender in the rewards market. This evolution marks a transformative step forward, potentially rivaling established loyalty programmes on a global scale.
Airtime Rewards continues to push the boundaries in the loyalty programme industry, setting new benchmarks for innovation and growth. The company’s forward-thinking strategies and technological advancements pave the way for a global presence, offering a revitalised approach to consumer rewards that could challenge traditional giants like Nectar.
By fostering strong local roots while eyeing international opportunities, Airtime Rewards exemplifies a balanced approach to growth. Their dedication to evolving the rewards market ensures that they remain at the forefront of digital innovation, meeting the dynamic needs of both retailers and consumers.
