What's Happening?
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has introduced Wyndham Rewards Insider, a travel subscription service offering benefits for an annual fee of $95. Subscribers receive perks such as automatic Gold level status,
concierge services, and discounts on hotels, flights, car rentals, and cruises. The service also includes entertainment benefits through a partnership with Ticketmaster, allowing members to earn and redeem points for concerts and live events. New subscribers signing up by the end of the year receive 14 months of service for the price of 12, plus a bonus of 7,500 Wyndham Rewards points.
Why It's Important?
Wyndham's new subscription service represents a shift in the hotel loyalty program landscape, offering a broader range of benefits beyond traditional hotel stays. By providing discounts and elevated status, Wyndham aims to attract a wider audience, including travelers who may not typically engage with hotel loyalty programs. This initiative could enhance customer retention and drive increased bookings through the Wyndham platform.
What's Next?
Wyndham may expand the range of benefits offered through the Rewards Insider program, potentially adding more partners or increasing discount rates. The success of this subscription model could influence other hotel chains to adopt similar strategies, leading to increased competition in the loyalty program market. Wyndham's focus on entertainment partnerships may also pave the way for further collaborations in the travel and leisure sectors.
Beyond the Headlines
The introduction of Wyndham Rewards Insider highlights the evolving nature of loyalty programs, as companies seek to provide more comprehensive and flexible benefits to consumers. This trend reflects changing consumer preferences, with travelers increasingly valuing experiences and convenience over traditional points-based rewards. As the travel industry continues to innovate, loyalty programs may play a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior and brand loyalty.
