# Digital Pancake Loyalty Programs IHOP Launches 'International Bank of Pancakes' Rewards Program By Niko Pajkovic | Published 2022-03-09 | Business Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/international-bank-of-pancakes References: [forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/aliciakelso/2022/03/09/ihop-launches-a-new-digitally-enabled-loyalty-program/?sh=4958735e2acc) & [ihop](https://www.ihop.com/en)  [IHOP](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-pancakes), an American multinational pancake and breakfast food chain, has announced the launch of 'International Bank of [Pancakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-bottomless-pancakes),' a new digital loyalty program designed to attract customers who have become increasingly digitally dependent in recent years. The new program will offer guests the chance to earn digital tokens called [PanCoins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sonics-blue-blur-special), which can be traded in for free food. There are three ways customers will be able to gain PanCoins: by paying directly from the app using a QR code located on their table, by scanning a barcode on their physical receipt, or by placing a to-go order through the app or website. Every $5 spent earns them one PanCoin that holds the value of one IHOP pancake. “This is the first time we’ve launched a true loyalty program. Part of what’s important is we’ve integrated our technology, so we’re focused on better digital experiences for our guests,” CMO of IHOP, Kieran Donahue Image Credit: IHOP ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.6/10 - Popularity: 27% | Activity: 69% | Freshness: 11% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/business) > [Retail](https://www.trendhunter.com/retail) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Digital Loyalty Programs:** The rising trend of digital loyalty programs can be adopted by businesses in various industries by providing customers with digital tokens, which can be redeemed for goods or services. - **QR Code Integration:** Integration of QR code technology in businesses can enable customers to have a seamless experience while earning rewards and can drive sales for the industry. - **Gamification in Loyalty Programs:** The use of gamification in loyalty programs can increase customer engagement and satisfaction leading to repeat business and brand loyalty in various industries from restaurant to retail. ### Who This Affects Most - **Food and Beverage:** Adoption of digital loyalty programs can provide a competitive advantage for food and beverage businesses looking to enhance customer experience through rewards and incentives. - **Retail:** Integrating QR code technology in retail businesses can provide customers with an easy way to earn rewards while shopping and can lead to increased customer loyalty. - **Technology:** Businesses involved in the development and implementation of digital loyalty programs and QR code technology can benefit from the increasing demand for tech-driven services in various industries. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Value-Packed Breakfast Promotions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-pancakes.md) - [Unlimited Pancake Diner Promotions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-bottomless-pancakes.md) - [All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Promotions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-allyoucaneat-pancakes.md) - [Complimentary Pancake Diner Promotions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-national-pancake-day.md) - [Monthly Pancake Promotions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-pancake-of-the-month.md) - [Spiced Apple-Topped Pancakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cinnamon-apple-pecan-pancakes.md) - [Pancake House Menu Expansions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ihop-1.md) - [Minty Holiday Diner Pancakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chocolate-peppermint-bark-pancakes.md) - [Supersized French Toast Breakfasts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/thick-n-fluffy-french-toast.md)