There are several ways to issue reward codes as an EcoBonus Sponsor. Each method has advantages:

#1 Simply add the EcoBonus Label to your packaging:

Every label contains a credit value and a corresponding unique one-time-use Reward Code.

EcoBonus Reward Code Labels are compatible with most existing label applicators, and the process of applying them is similar to applying an instantly redeemable coupon.

Advantages: No packaging change required to participate – just label application. The label acts as the program’s advertisement on-pack.

Patsy Cobb, Supply Chain Specialist, Schwan’s Global Supply Chain, writes about our programs:

“The process set up for ordering the Reward Code Labels has made it extremely easy. The labels are easy to handle, store and very easy to apply to products. If the labeling process is keeping anyone from becoming a Sponsor, move past that! It’s easy from the get go.”

Disadvantages: May require the addition of label application equipment on the production line.

In BI’s Coalition Marketing programs, reward code labels are applied to thousands of products in over 237 production plants around the world every year. Let us ship you label samples or arrange a free consultation between your plant managers and one of our packaging engineers.

#2 Incorporate a promotional label-on-label:

Many companies, including Seventh Generation, The Body Shop, and Ecover already use a label-on-label solution to promote their product ingredients. Adding the EcoBonus Reward Code to the reverse of the label occurs during the printing of the labels prior to shipping to the plant so that line speeds are not impacted during label application.

There are many excellent examples of manufacturers using unique codes on pack to appeal to locavores by tracing products to the source including Just Bare Chicken, Dole Organic’s Visit the Farm Code, HarvestMark which has been adopted by over 100 produce brands, and Icebreaker’s “enter your BAACODE” to trace merino wool in their clothing.

In addition, manufacturers are encouraging consumers to enter on-pack codes to engage them in cause marketing campaigns, like P&G’s Dawn Saves Wildlife promotion or Tide Loads of Hope program.

Advantages: No packaging change or additional label application equipment required to participate. This larger label also provides more room for promotional messaging and can be designed to integrate your brand seamlessly.

Disadvantages: Typically more expensive and requires a longer label production lead time.

#3 Laser a reward code on the packaging:

There are many clever methods of lasering a unique reward codes on packaging. Tropicana’s Juicy Rewards program (at left) is an example of one of the most common methods – under the cap – and illustrates a best practice when it comes to using the package to call attention to the program. Another well known under-the-cap example is My Coke Rewards, which enjoys 13 million members.

In fact, there are now so many cost-effective coding solutions available from vendors like Videojet, that unique codes can be applied to virtually any surface – from the inside of the box as in Stouffer’s Dinner Club to the outside of the yogurt lid as in My Stoneyfield Rewards to on the label of a salsa jar as in LaVic Rewards or to vitamins as in NatureMade’s Wellness Rewards program to no packaging at all as in Where’s Yours From? and My Fresh Egg.

Advantages: Cost effective for large volume applications. Works well with virtually all high-speed production lines in conjunction with the lot coding process.

Disadvantages: May require a packaging change to make space for the code and to advertise its presence on-pack.

Here’s Hans Khote, Marketing Manager at Basic American Foods, describing the setup process from his experience with another another of our Coalition Loyalty Programs, Foodservice Rewards: