UK Entertainment Loyalty Programmes Continue to Grow in 2026
UK consumers are turning more and more to loyalty programmes as a way to make going out more affordable. Businesses are also increasingly rewarding repeat customers with cashback, discounts and exclusive experiences to try and capitalise on this trend.
The UK’s Growing Entertainment Sector
One of the biggest areas of growth can be seen in the UK cinema industry. ODEON Extras reward members with 25 points for every £1 spent on food, drink or cinema tickets. Points can then be exchanged for rewards. Showcase Insider also offers 10% back on qualifying purchases, and Cineworld has an Unlimited program, which awards discounted screenings. Memberships like this are ideal for those who go to the cinema multiple times over the year, particularly when combined with exclusive food and drink offers.
The online casino sector has significantly expanded its loyalty offerings in 2026 too. Now, casino bonus promotions include betting £10 to get 50 free spins, day-specific rewards, and the opportunity to win daily or weekly prizes. Weekly loss cashback is also an option, showing how varied discounts are becoming to cater to the needs of modern audiences.
Live entertainment has embraced loyalty programmes. Theatre-goers can sign up with an ATG+ Membership to get priority access to tickets, waived booking fees and discounts at venue bars. DesignMyNight Rewards also offers a unique approach, offering ways for consumers to save by awarding points when restaurants are booked, or when events are paid for through the platform.
Mobile Providers Are Competing for Loyalty
One shift in 2026 would be mobile providers becoming major players in the entertainment sector. O2 Priority gives customers early access to some of the biggest concerts in the UK, before they go on general sale. This is alongside discounted cinema tickets and high-street offers. Three Mobile customers can grab £3 tickets for weekend screenings at Picturehouse. EE, another big mobile provider in the UK, offers streaming service packages, including Apple Music, Apple TV+ or Netflix, with the option to swap perks every week.
It’s not just mobile providers that are competing either. Banks are now offering discounts and rewards. Barclays Premier customers, or those who are part of the Blue Rewards programme, can enjoy access to exclusive gig tickets. By buying blocks of seats, the bank is able to offer the best ones in the house to customers of the service, which rewards loyalty while encouraging new sign-ups.
This, combined with the Barclays Lounge, which offers upgraded food, drink and private facilities to concert-goers, is a clear sign of how strong the entertainment sector is, and how major companies are trying to find new ways to appeal to customers through discounts, even if the discount doesn't directly relate to their primary service.
As Sainsbury's offers people the chance to convert their Nectar points into experiences, such as tickets for Sealife or theme park tickets, it’s evident that the entertainment world is changing, and as competition heats up, people stand to save even more when hunting for bargain deals or half-price experiences.
