Entertainment loyalty programs are transforming how brands engage customers across theaters, streaming platforms, amusement parks, sports, and casinos. Programs like AMC Stubs and Broadway’s Audience Rewards deliver early ticket access and VIP perks, while Disney+ Perks and Canela Media’s Club Canela reward streaming engagement with merch and partner offers.
Theme park loyalty programs like Six Flags Pass Perks and Universal Rewards Visa incentivize visits with discounts and exclusive benefits, and casinos like Caesars Rewards and MGM Rewards elevate the experience with tiered perks, free play, and luxury travel rewards. This guide reveals how these strategies from 10 industry-leading entertainment companies boost retention and revenue in a competitive market.
And if you’re ready to see how Antavo’s AI Loyalty Cloud platform helps entertainment industry brands grow their fan engagement, make sure to book a demo with our experts!
Key Takeaways – TL; DR
- Global projections are overall positive for the entertainment sector.
- Industry challenges include high churn rates and economic uncertainty.
- Tiers, subscriptions, partner rewards, and experiential perks empower loyalty strategies.
- Gamified challenges and lifestyle benefits are on the rise with industry giants.
- 10 best entertainment loyalty programs to serve as inspiration.
Table of Contents
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The Biggest Challenges Within the Entertainment Industry
The past five years have been nothing if not a rollercoaster ride for the entertainment industry (pun intended). From having to rebound after extreme on-site shutdowns to figuring out how to optimize their content for a maturing SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand) market and battling oversaturated entertainment segments, the challenges are plentiful.
While overall projections are positive, with the global event industry reported to reach $1.5 trillion by 2028, certain entertainment industry pain points still need to be addressed. Some of which hit hard on specific industry sectors, while others impact entertainment-focused businesses as a whole:
- Cost pressures: Inflation and rising operational costs, and lagging supply chains.
- Affordability: While operating costs hit venues, overspill hits customers, 60% of whom declared not attending live events, simply because they couldn’t afford it.
- Competition across screens & venues: The home experience has improved, making it harder for cinemas, sports bars, and even casinos to lure consumers out.
- Changing consumer habits: Audiences now expect premium experiences and flexibility (e.g., subscription models, exclusive perks) to justify leaving home.
- High churn & fragmentation: Streaming services suffer from subscriber volatility. 2024 saw 147.8M cancellations among the top U.S. platforms, driving churn rates up to 5% monthly.
- Laws and tariffs: Increasingly strict regulatory actions are being introduced all over the US for casinos and resorts.
What Is an Entertainment Loyalty Program?
Created to drive engagement and effectively influence customer behavior, entertainment loyalty programs are the perfect customer retention tools for this segment. They’re built to showcase innovation and unconventionality – very much needed for a segment this diverse – to bring fans, families, and friends to venues and amusement parks, by offering community-driven comfort perks, and once-in-a-lifetime experiential rewards.
Entertainment loyalty programs, memberships, and subscriptions have been introduced to:
- Drive higher average spend and the frequency of visits to streaming services, theaters, cinemas, amusement parks, sporting events, and casinos.
- Reward loyal customers and fans for transactional and non-transactional contributions.
- Generate secondary revenue involving hospitality services, plus on-site and online merchandise sales.
- Carve out dedicated core audiences, elevate lifetime spending, and essentially future-proof operations.
- Deepen fan engagement, emotional dedication, word-of-mouth, and online advocacy.
- Channel SVOD subscribers into bigger brand ecosystems, through related perks (such as Disney+’s Perks loyalty program offering benefits for the wider world of The Walt Disney Company).
How Loyalty Programs Empower Growth and Customer Retention in the Entertainment Industry
It’s almost impossible to provide a blueprint for such a diverse industry as a whole, with different segments representing different audiences, activities, platforms, and consumer habits. However, when it comes to entertainment loyalty programs, our top 5 keywords would be: fun, engaging, innovative, experiential, and value-driven. However, we’ve prepared an overview of how loyalty programs can drive customer retention in the 5 most significant industry segments.
Theaters and Movie Theaters
Loyalty programs can help by: Enabling premium experiences, Family Clubs, BTS access, special movie marathons, invite-only events, early access to tickets, partner perks, driving secondary sales through promotions, and subscriber benefits.
Streaming Services
Loyalty programs can help by: Rewarding non-transactional activities – such as minutes watched – make viewership fun, game-like challenges drive engagement, while service bundle perks elevate value. Clubs bring viewers of specific genres together, like K-drama fans or mystery thrill seekers.
Amusement and Theme Parks
Loyalty programs can help by: Introducing progression-oriented tier systems, with gradually more exclusive benefits, adding point sharing and friend-referral options, effectively driving attendance, engagement, and supporting overall lifetime value.
Sports Games, Sports Bars & Fan Engagement
Loyalty programs can help by: Driving fan engagement and leveraging technology through mobile loyalty apps with challenges, surveys, social sharing, reviews, and other gamification features. Plus, member-only events, athlete meet & greets, exclusive access to premium merch and Fan Clubs.
Casinos and Resorts
Loyalty programs can help by: Creating a 360-degree retention ecosystem that connects casino playgrounds, dining, online games, and hotel resort stays through earn-and-burn mechanisms, exclusive offers, and tangible rewards, such as free upgrades, waived fees, complimentary credit, invitation-only events, and VIP tiers. Plus, providing transparency and seamless access to rewards and promotions through mobile apps.
10 Industry-Leading Entertainment Loyalty Program Examples
Entertainment loyalty programs are evolving beyond simple point systems into fully immersive ecosystems that blend digital engagement, exclusive experiences, and lifestyle perks. Brands are focusing on emotional connection and personalized rewards to keep fans engaged both online and offline.
Theater and Movie Theater Loyalty Programs
Theater loyalty programs now go beyond discounted tickets by offering priority access to premieres, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, and event invitations. These programs focus on creating a VIP experience for cinephiles and theatergoers, making cultural experiences more accessible and rewarding.
1. Broadway: Audience Rewards Program
As the heart and soul of NYC, Broadway consists of 40 theaters, seating at least 500 people. Audience Rewards is Broadway’s official, free loyalty program, created for theater lovers. The program combines points, perks, and exclusive experiences, making every ticket purchase more rewarding.
- Program members earn ShowPoints: 2 points per $1 on ticket purchases, with bonus points for select shows.
- ShowPoints can be redeemed for: Free and discounted tickets, merch, dining vouchers, and fan experiences, like meet&greets and post-show Q&As.
- There is a VIP tier: At 10,000 points/year, loyalty members get 50% more points, 3 ShowPoints per $1, access to insider events, and birthday surprises.
Why it works:
- ShowPoints can be purchased, giving fans more flexibility in attaining the best rewards.
- Rewards truly tie into fans’ passions, from free tickets to meet-and-greets.
- Ultimate freedom of choice at reward redemption as well: buying for points, a mix of points and dollars, or during an auction-style bidding.
2. AMC: Stubs Loyalty Program
AMC Theatres is one of the biggest movie exhibition companies in the world, operating theaters and screens globally. Its AMC Stubs is a multi-tier loyalty program designed to reward moviegoers with points, perks, and VIP experiences. Whether you’re an occasional visitor or a film fanatic, AMC Stubs offers the right tier for everyone.
- Points & rewards: Members can earn up to 100 points per $1 spent (depending on their tier level); redeem 5,000 points for $5 off.
- Hybrid tier system: Insider (only free tier), Premiere, Premiere Go, and A-List, with escalating benefits.
- Exclusive perks: Free birthday popcorn and drinks, waived ticketing fees, and 50% off tickets on select days.
- Highest tier “A-List” comes with: Up to 4 movies per week in any format, no upcharge or online fees, food and beverage upgrades, priority lane, no expiration date for points, etc.
Why it works:
- Free entry-level tier plus paid tiers with premium benefits attract all audience types.
- Monetary everyday perks like discounts and waived fees provide immediate satisfaction.
- A-List benefits turn frequent visits into a lifestyle, encouraging long-term loyalty.
Streaming Service Loyalty Programs
Streaming platforms are redefining loyalty by introducing bundled perks, exclusive content access, and engagement-based rewards, driving retention in a competitive market. Programs like Disney+ Perks and Club Canela create value beyond viewing through merchandise discounts, event access, and experiential benefits.
3. Canela Media: Club Canela Loyalty Program
One of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the US, Canela Media, recently launched Club Canela, an engagement-driven 4-tiered rewards program powered by Antavo’s AI Loyalty Cloud. The program lets viewers earn points for every minute they watch on Canela.TV, creating a fun and interactive way to celebrate audience loyalty.
- Watch & Earn mechanism: Members collect 5 points for every 5 minutes streamed through the “Five for Five” system.
- Challenges & quizzes: Users earn bonus points and badges by completing challenges and trivia.
- Exclusive rewards: Redeem points for early-access trailers, downloadable kids’ content, branded merchandise, and third-party perks like McDonald’s offers.
Why it works:
- Moves loyalty beyond purchase-based models to reward actual viewer activity.
- Combines cultural relevance, gamification, and surprise elements to drive long-term loyalty.
- The prospect of earning by viewing and climbing through 4 membership tiers for enhanced benefits and multipliers keeps viewers constantly engaged.
4. DisneyPlus: Disney+ Perks Program
As the Walt Disney Company’s premium SVOD service, Disney+ offers a wide selection of entertainment, including the Marvel and Star Wars franchises. The company recently launched a rewards program called Disney+ Perks, which transforms a simple streaming subscription into a loyalty-driven entertainment experience.
- Brand ecosystem expansion: Early access to park tickets, holiday offers, events, resort discounts up to 35% off, deals on toys, premium merchandise drops, and access to limited-edition collectibles.
- Event-focused privileges: Presale access to concerts, stage shows, and invitation-only red-carpet premieres.
- Exclusive giveaways: Loyalty members can win prizes from movie double-passes to VIP event attendance, and dream vacations at Disneyland.
Why it works:
- Drives cross-platform value, connecting streaming with Disney’s entire ecosystem, parks, cruises, merchandise, and more.
- From holiday offers to personalized event invites, perks make fans feel like insiders.
- Limited-time offers and early shopping windows drive urgency and engagement.
Amusement and Theme Parks Loyalty Programs
Amusement park loyalty programs reward repeat visits and in-park spending with perks like free tickets, discounts, and VIP experiences. These programs aim to deepen family engagement and encourage long-term brand affinity by turning visits into memorable, value-added adventures.
5. Six Flags: Pass Perks Program
Operating 42 amusement parks across the US, Canada, and Mexico, Six Flags is turning roller-coaster excitement into rewards with Pass Perks, its loyalty program for Season Passholders and Members. The program incentivizes frequent visits with discounts, freebies, and exclusive perks, all seamlessly tracked via the Six Flags mobile app.
- Visit-based rewards: Pass Perks members earn benefits based on how often they visit in a month (2 visits: 10% off food & merchandise, 3 visits: 15%, 4 visits: 20%).
- Bring-a-friend deals: Discounted or free tickets for friends once loyalty members hit visit thresholds.
- Mobile focus: Visitors can track rewards and redeem at participating parks via the Six Flags app.
Why it works:
- Behavior-driven loyalty, a.k.a rewarding repeat visits, turns thrill-seekers into loyal fans.
- Bring-A-Friend perks encourage group visits and increase foot traffic.
- Simple & transparent concept, no points system, just visit, earn, and redeem, making it easy to understand.
6. Universal Studios: Universal Rewards Visa® Cards
Offering immersive entertainment experiences both in the US and Asia, Universal Studios is bringing blockbuster excitement to visitors’ wallets with the Universal Rewards Visa® program, designed for park enthusiasts who want their purchases to pay off in thrills. This program blends travel perks, park savings, and exclusive experiences for loyal fans.
- Going beyond the benefits included in member passes: Universal Studios offers exclusive perks to Visa Rewards cardholders.
- Free + paid card options: Free Card offering 2X points on Universal purchases, and Plus Card ($99 annual fee) that comes with 4x points at Universal, 2X on travel, gas & dining, several bonuses, and lounge access.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Up to $300 statement credit when hitting early spend requirements.
- Park Perks: 10% off food, beverages & select merchandise at Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, and CityWalk locations.
Why it works:
- Exclusive Access & Status Perks: VIP-style perks, like complimentary theme park tickets for big spenders and exclusive lounge access, elevate the program beyond a typical credit card offer.
- Cross-Channel Value: Rewards can be redeemed for vacation packages, Universal FUNds prepaid cards, and even travel costs, giving flexibility while keeping Universal top-of-mind.
Sports Games & Sports Fan Membership Programs
Sports loyalty programs tap into fans’ passion by offering priority ticket access, merchandise discounts, and exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. They leverage gamification and engagement-based challenges to keep fans connected during both the on- and off-season.
7. FIFA: FIFA Rewards Loyalty Program
FIFA, the global leader in football, recently introduced FIFA Rewards, a fan-focused loyalty program that gamifies engagement across its digital ecosystem, rewarding fans with real-world perks, digital collectibles, and exclusive experiences. The program is currently available in BETA version, with the full launch expected in 2026.
- Members earn XPs (Experience Points) for progression: Every activity adds XP, unlocking rewards and milestone benefits such as exclusive events.
- Users can collect stamps: By completing challenges across FIFA platforms like FIFA+, FIFA Store, and at live matches.
- Cross-platform integration: Members need to engage through gaming, digital collectibles, e-commerce, and live event check-ins for maximum rewards.
Why it works:
- Gamified progression through XP and collectible stamps keeps engagement fun and addictive.
- Multi-touchpoint strategy, where fans interact across digital, physical, and live-event experiences for maximum brand exposure.
- Tying rewards to major events like the FIFA Club World Cup creates urgency and excitement.
8. Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team: I / AM Membership Program
Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team brings fans closer to the heart of F1 through the free I / AM membership and engagement platform. Packed with exclusive experiences, limited-edition merch, and behind-the-scenes content, the I / AM program highlights the value of fan engagement for motorsport teams.
- Priority access to events: Team HQ tours, trackside experiences, and exclusive Grand Prix moments.
- I / AM DROPS: Users get access to ultra-limited collabs, merch, and VIP invitations across music, fashion, and motorsports.
- I / AM UNWRAPPED: Seasonal giveaways like signed helmets, race-worn gloves, and behind-the-scenes tours keep fans engaged.
- E-commerce benefits: Members can enjoy 10% off their first order on the official team store, plus access to special edition products.
Why it works:
- Limited-edition drops and one-off prizes embody scarcity and exclusivity.
- Blends motorsport passion with lifestyle, music, and fashion, appealing to broader fan interests.
- Positions fans as part of the team narrative, strengthening brand loyalty and advocacy.
Casino Loyalty Programs
Casino loyalty programs like Caesars Rewards and MGM Rewards combine gaming, hospitality, and lifestyle benefits into a single ecosystem, rewarding everything from slot play to dining and travel. With tier-based perks, luxury experiences, and cross-industry partnerships, these programs create high-value, long-term engagement for premium customers.
9. Caesars Entertainment: Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program
Caesars Rewards is one of the casino industry’s most popular loyalty programs, offering members opportunities to earn and redeem credits across 50+ resorts, casinos, and online platforms, including gaming, dining, hotels, and entertainment.
- Six elite tiers: Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Diamond Plus, Diamond Elite, and Seven Stars, with escalating benefits like complimentary stays, airfare credits, and VIP access.
- Members earn points on gaming, hotel bookings, dining, retail, and online play (including Caesars Sportsbook), then redeem for free play, show tickets, dining, and shopping.
- Exclusive partner benefits: Wyndham Rewards, Norwegian Cruise Line, National Car Rental, and more for travel, shopping, and entertainment.
- The Caesars Rewards app lets members track offers, manage reservations, and access mobile-exclusive promotions.
Why it works:
- Combines physical gaming, online play, hospitality, and retail for maximum omnichannel engagement.
- The tiered structure and daily credit bonuses create strong incentive loops for continuous play and visits.
- Cross-industry partnerships (travel, dining, shopping) make the program appealing beyond the casino floor.
10. MGM Resorts International: MGM Rewards Loyalty Program
MGM Rewards is a comprehensive hospitality and gaming loyalty program that rewards members for nearly every dollar spent across MGM Resorts’ destinations, BetMGM platforms, and select partners.
- Points can be redeemed for: Hotel stays, entertainment, dining, and unique experiences.
- Five membership tiers: Sapphire, Pearl, Gold, Platinum, and Noir, with escalating perks such as waived resort fees, free parking, air travel credits, VIP reservations, and annual cruise benefits.
- Lifestyle partnerships: Status match with Marriott Bonvoy, exclusive cruise offers with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, and discounts with Avis Car Rental amplify the program’s value.
- Digital convenience: The MGM Rewards app lets members manage points, book stays, and access personalized offers in real time.
Why it works:
- Rewards gaming, hospitality, entertainment, and online sports betting under one omnichannel program.
- Encourages continuous engagement through tier benefits and extra-credit rollover opportunities.
- Premium appeal, perks like air travel credits, annual cruises, and partner benefits position MGM Rewards as a luxury lifestyle membership.
Measuring Entertainment Loyalty Program Success
Success measurement for entertainment loyalty programs depends on balancing engagement metrics, revenue impact, and experience-driven outcomes, as each segment caters to different audience behaviors and expectations.
Key loyalty metrics for theater & movie theater loyalty programs:
- Frequency of ticket purchases per member.
- Average spend on concessions & premium seating upgrades.
Key loyalty metrics for streaming service loyalty programs:
- Engagement with exclusive content, quizzes, and perks.
- Conversion of free users to paid tiers through rewards.
Key loyalty metrics for amusement park loyalty programs:
- In-park spending uplift among loyalty members.
- Redemption of tier perks like priority access or discounts.
Key loyalty metrics for sports loyalty programs:
- Ticket sales driven by loyalty offers (bundles, presale).
- Engagement with gamified challenges & fan events.
Key loyalty metrics for casino loyalty programs:
- Share of wallet & incremental revenue from high-tier members.
- Cross-property play (gaming + hotel + dining).
Fun and Games, but Make It Successful
Entertainment loyalty programs are no longer optional; they’re a strategic necessity in an era of high competition and evolving consumer habits. Brands that innovate with personalization, gamification, and cross-channel value are setting the stage for deeper engagement and long-term growth.
Want to take your loyalty strategy to the next level? Explore the world of AI-powered loyalty with Antavo! Get in touch with our experts by booking a demo to see our platform’s capabilities!
Make sure to download our free, user-friendly Loyalty Program Concept Worksheet!
Zsuzsanna is a Loyalty Specialist and Certified Loyalty Expert™ with years of experience in digital marketing and e-commerce. Zsuzsanna is known for having an analytic approach and high-level communication skills, helping her deliver engaging content. In her free time, she enjoys watching Formula 1 and listening to endless Taylor Swift playlists.
