You'll want these "Subway tokens."
The world's largest restaurant chain announced in a news release Thursday it'll roll out a nationwide loyalty programin March at28,500 Subway locations in the U.S. andCanada.
Tokens are the key to earning discounts with the new Subway MyWayRewards, which will be available on the Subway smartphone app or with a Subway card.
“It’ll be the largest loyalty program in the world,” said SubwayChief Digital OfficerCarissa Ganelli, adding she expects the program to launch in mid-March. "The program really is about flexibility and choice to the consumer."
Rewards members will earn four tokens for every $1 spent. When you collect 200 tokens by spending $50, earn a $2 discount on any menu item.
Or you can choose to save up your rewards.
"You can get a free six-inch, a free footlong," Ganelli said. "Or you can save up your $2 rewards for catering platters, anything you’d like."
With the Subway smartphone app, you also can place orders in advance, customize it and then save your favorites.
Like with other rewards programs, there will be chances to earn bonuses and surprise rewards. You’ll also get a birthday freebie if you add your date of birth to your profile.
“On your way to earning the tokens to get your $2 rewards, you will also get surprise rewards,” Ganelli said, adding these rewards are for menu items like chips, drinks, cookies or even sandwiches. “We'll surprise you with them based on how often you come in.”
The chain's last loyalty program, Subway Rewards, was not a nationwide program and only available in about a third of U.S. locations, Ganelli said. The voluntaryprogram launched in 2005 and replaced the oldpaper and stamp Sub Clubprogram.
Ganelli called the new program a great enhancement, which will save consumers time and money.
“Why not get rewarded for doing what you would do anyway while you’re enjoying our delicious sandwiches?” she said.
Kelly Tyko is a columnist for Treasure Coast Newspapers andTCPalm.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK. This column reflects her opinion. Read her Bargainista tips atTCPalm.com/Bargainistaand follow her onTwitter@KellyTyko. Sign up for her weekly newsletter atwww.tcpalm.com/featured-newsletter/bargainistabest.
