Loyalty Programs for Young Canadians: What's Hot for Gen Z and Millennials (2025 Update)

Introduction

Gen Z and Millennials are reshaping loyalty programs in Canada. These digital natives want more than just points—they crave instant rewards, mobile-first experiences, social perks, and programs that reflect their values. In 2025, brands are responding with gamification, sustainability, and seamless digital integration. This guide explores what young Canadians want, the best programs, key features, actionable tips, and how to maximize rewards.

Table of Contents

  1. What Do Young Canadians Want in Loyalty Programs?
  2. Top Loyalty Programs for Gen Z and Millennials
  3. Key Features: Gamification, Mobile-First, and Social Perks
  4. Values-Driven and Sustainable Loyalty
  5. How to Maximize Rewards
  6. FAQ
  7. Conclusion

1. What Do Young Canadians Want in Loyalty Programs?

  • Free and easy access: 63% of Millennials say a free program is the top reason to join. Gen Z expects frictionless sign-ups and instant gratification.
  • Mobile-first design: Seamless app experiences, omnichannel access, and digital cards are essential.
  • Gamification: Challenges, badges, leaderboards, and surprise rewards keep engagement high and make loyalty fun.
  • Personalization: Tailored offers and experiences—78% of Gen Z expect personalized rewards.
  • Social and experiential perks: Exclusive experiences, social sharing, and rewards that can be used with friends or support causes.
  • Sustainability: 85% of Gen Z prefer programs with a sustainability focus, making eco-friendly rewards a major draw.

2. Top Loyalty Programs for Gen Z and Millennials

  • PC Optimum: Personalized weekly offers, easy-to-use app, frequent bonus events, and gamified features like "Spin to Win." Stack with a PC Financial Mastercard for even faster earning.
  • Scene+: Expanded from movies to groceries, travel, and dining. Mobile-first design, instant digital redemptions, and frequent bonus events. Use a Scotiabank Scene+ credit card for maximum value.
  • Air Miles: Flexibility to earn and redeem with hundreds of partners, including Starbucks, Sobeys, and Shell. App-based offers, personalized deals, and the ability to convert points for travel or everyday purchases.
  • Tim Hortons Tims Rewards: Simple app, instant rewards, and bonus offers for frequent purchases. Redeem points for premium menu items for better value.
  • McDonald's MyMcDonald's Rewards: Gamified app experience, instant points, and personalized challenges. Complete app challenges for surprise bonuses.
  • Indigo Plum Rewards: Free to join, points on every purchase, app-based offers, and member-only events. Upgrade to Plum Plus for added discounts and free shipping.
  • Triangle Rewards (Canadian Tire): Digital "CT Money," personalized offers, and a mobile app for earning on everything from sports gear to gas. Link with Petro-Canada for extra gas rewards.

3. Key Features: Gamification, Mobile-First, and Social Perks

  • Gamification: 55% of 18–54-year-olds in Canada engage in gamification activities with loyalty programs. Challenges, badges, and leaderboards drive engagement and loyalty.
  • Mobile-first design: Young Canadians want to earn and redeem points, access offers, and get support—all from their phones. Omnichannel experiences are critical for satisfaction and ongoing engagement.
  • Social rewards: Instant sharing of achievements, rewards, and experiences on social media amplifies brand reach and community.
  • Values-driven loyalty: Sustainability, diversity, and social impact are key—programs that offer eco-friendly rewards or charitable donations win extra points with young members.
  • Experiential perks: "Money can't buy" rewards, exclusive access, and event invites are more meaningful than simple discounts.

4. Values-Driven and Sustainable Loyalty

  • Eco-friendly rewards: Programs like Aeroplan, PC Optimum, and Air Miles offer green rewards, carbon offsets, and support for local and sustainable products.
  • Charitable giving: Many programs allow point donations to causes, supporting the values of Gen Z and Millennials.
  • Social impact: Brands that demonstrate real commitment to sustainability and diversity build stronger loyalty among young Canadians.

5. How to Maximize Rewards

  1. Download the app: Always use the program's app for bonus offers, gamified challenges, and instant rewards.
  2. Participate in challenges: Complete streaks, badges, or missions for extra points and surprise perks.
  3. Stack your rewards: Use a rewards credit card linked to your favorite programs for double-dipping.
  4. Watch for bonus events: Take advantage of 10x points, double rewards days, and limited-time offers.
  5. Personalize your preferences: Update your app settings for tailored deals and notifications.
  6. Redeem smart: Save points for higher-value rewards or exclusive experiences.

6. FAQ

Q: Are loyalty programs really worth it for young Canadians?
A: Yes—if you focus on programs that match your lifestyle, use the app, and take advantage of bonus events and gamified features.

Q: How do I avoid missing out on rewards?
A: Stay active in the app, enable notifications, and participate in challenges and bonus events.

Q: Can I combine loyalty programs and credit card rewards?
A: Absolutely—many programs allow you to stack rewards for maximum value.

Q: What if I care about sustainability?
A: Look for programs that offer eco-friendly rewards, charitable giving, and demonstrate real social impact.

7. Conclusion

For Gen Z and Millennials, the best loyalty programs in Canada are digital, gamified, social, and values-driven. Whether you're earning points on groceries, movies, coffee, or travel, look for programs that offer instant rewards, mobile-first convenience, and perks that fit your lifestyle and beliefs. With the right strategy, every purchase can be a win—today and for the long haul.