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Chain restaurant loyalty programs are a dime a dozen nowadays. The rewards system has become so commonplace that even local mom-and-pop coffee shops and grocery chains have adopted them. But little did anyone know that Chick-Fil-A had an extremely exclusive VIP loyalty program that is invite-only—because it's been keeping it hush-hush for years.
According to CNBC, the program is called A-List (how elite) and requires members to be invited by another member to join. Apparently it's only for the most dedicated chicken and fries lovers, who receive a dedicated Chick-Fil-A card to scan or swipe with every purchase.
"A-List is a VIP program meant to honor our best and most loyal customers," Chick-Fil-A notes on its website. "Our hope is that this program will allow your Chick-Fil-A Operator to get to know you at an even deeper level and be able to better care for you when you visit Chick-Fil-A." Hmm, okay. But what exactly are the benefits? Free waffle fries? An extra container of Polynesian sauce to stock up in your fridge?
According to Chick-Fil-A, members get to reap benefits like "free food awards," which they can redeem for their favorite menu items and "just because" offers extended by your local franchisee. It also gives you access to an app that notifies you of events and giveaways.
Supposedly this program is open to anyone; however the company says this is up to the participating locations' discretion. And CNBC reports that it's currently offered in only half of the chain's more than 2,000 restaurants.
Carrie Kurlander, vice president of public relations at Chick-fil-A, explained to the news site that the program runs "like a local coffee place that knows how you like your coffee. It's more of a personalized experience." But only for a select few, of course.
Good thing we cracked the recipe on its famous fried chicken sandwich.
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